Isolation and identification of motile Aeromonas spp. in ground beef

In this study, a total of 100 ground beef samples purchased at different butchers' shops and supermarkets in Ankara including 50 samples obtained from butchers' shops and 50 samples obtained from supermarkets, were analysed for the presence of motile Aeromonas species. According to the analysis, motile Aeromonas spp. were found in 73 % (73/100) of ground beef samples. Aeromonas spp. were isolated from 33 samples (66 %) obtained from butchers' shops, and 40 samples (8D %) obtained From supermarkets. A. hydrophila was the most prevalent species, followed by A. sobria and A. caviae from all of the samples. In conclusion, it was determined that ground beef samples were contaminated with motile Aeromonas species and also A. hydrophila and A. caviae as, potential pathogens, were frequently identified species. Thus, it was suggested that hygienic precautions be applied and especially ground beef should be consumed after a short storage period in a refrigerator, in homes and markets.