Antibiotic resistance in E.coli isolated from mint in local markets in Hebron, Palestine

The growing concerns about antibiotic resistant bacteria have emerged as a significant global health threat, raising concerns about leafy vegetables including mint as potential reservoirs for resistant strains. This study investigated antibiotic resistance in the fecal contamination indicator E.coli, isolated from locally cultivated mint in Hebron, Palestine.

A total of 14 mint samples were collected from grocery markets across the central, western, and southern regions of Hebron between January and March 2024. E.coli identification was performed using biochemical testing and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and antibiotic susceptibility testing was done through Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method.

13 isolates were confirmed to be E.coli through biochemical and molecular analyses (PCR). These were subsequently tested for phenotypic resistance through Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Among the 13 isolates, 53.9% (95% CI, 26.8-81%) and 46.2% (95% CI, 19.2-74.9%) were resistant to tetracycline and chloramphenicol, respectively. Notably, 15.4% (95% CI, 4.3-42.2%) of the isolates showed possible heteroresistance to fluoroquinolones, with one isolate displaying resistance to both tetracycline and chloramphenicol (7.7%, 95% CI, 1.4-33.3%). Intermediate resistance to orally administered cefuroxime was observed in 61.5% (95% CI, 35.1-88%) of the isolates. Furthermore, 23.1% (95% CI, 8.2-50.1%) of the isolates were classified as MDR strains based on Magiorakos et al. (2012) MDR classification criteria.

This study is considered the first to demonstrate the presence of antibiotic resistance in mint plant in Palestine. Our preliminary results align with international findings, add to the existing local epidemiological data, and highlight the need to study the extent of antibiotic resistance in clinically significant bacteria contaminating fresh produce in Palestine.