A study on the occurrence of human enteric viruses in salad vegetables and seafood and associated health risks for consumers in Mauritius

Submitted: 4 May 2023
Accepted: 29 August 2023
Published: 10 October 2023
Abstract Views: 1047
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Authors

Norovirus (NOV) and hepatitis A virus (HAV) are human enteric viruses of major concern worldwide. Salad vegetables and molluscan shellfish are highly susceptible to contamination by NOV and HAV and can pose a health threat when consumed raw. The objective of this study was to determine the occurrence of NOV and HAV in lettuce, watercress, tomatoes, and oysters using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and assess the health risks associated with the consumption of these commodities by semi-quantitative risk assessment. The occurrence of NOV in vegetables ranked in the following decreasing order: lettuce (36%) > watercress (16%) > tomatoes (4%). However, HAV was more frequently detected in watercress (56%), compared to lettuce or tomatoes (12%). Additionally, NOV was detected in oysters (60%). The risk assessment exercise pointed to a medium-risk score of contracting a foodborne illness of viral origin for consumers eating fresh watercress or oysters. Future research will ascertain the presence of these enteric viruses in a broader range of food commodities.

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Supporting Agencies

European Union, University of Mauritius

How to Cite

1.
Neetoo H, Juggoo K, Johaheer H, Ranghoo-Sanmukhiya M, Manoga Z, Gurib N. A study on the occurrence of human enteric viruses in salad vegetables and seafood and associated health risks for consumers in Mauritius . Ital J Food Safety [Internet]. 2023 Oct. 10 [cited 2024 Dec. 7];12(4). Available from: https://www.pagepressjournals.org/ijfs/article/view/11447