ABSTRACT

 Nine samples of each of the three sliced fruits (Pawpaw, Pineapple and Watermelon) were randomly selected from three markets (Ahia eke, Isi gate and Ndoro) in Umuahia, Abia State and were analysed for bacteria contamination. The entire samples examined were contaminated with bacteria. Pawpaw, Pineapple and Watermelon had average viable count of 3.9 x i07Cfulg, 3.4 x i07 Cfu!g, 3.7 x i07Cfulg respectively on nutrient Agar, and 4.1 x i05Cfulg, 3.8 x 1O Cfu!g, and 3.6 x 1O Cfulg on MacConkey Agar. From the markets where they were purchased, Isi gate had the highest total viable count for the three sliced fruits with the range of 4.2 x i07Cfu!g, 3.8 x i07 Cfulg, 4.1 x i07Cfu!g respectively on nutrient agar, and 4.3 x i05Cfu!g, 4.2 x i05Cfu!g, 3.9 x i05 Cfulg respectively on MacConkey agar. Bacillus spp were detected in 22.22% of the samples, the presence of E.coli and Staphylococcus spp confirmed in 33.33% of the samples respectively while Klebsiella spp were detected in 11.11% of the samples. This study suggested that most of the sliced fruits sold in the selected markets in Umuahia metropolis, might be a source of food poisoning and can cause public health hazards. The need for improvement and maintenance of good hygienic practices by fruits handlers and vendors in this state is emphasized.