Investigation of Escherichia coli contamination in fresh momar (Decapterus sp) in Ambon City fish market

Abstract

Abstract The process of handling fresh fish by traders is still inadequate in terms of safety when handling fish after rigor mortis. Preliminary exploration in the market results in the fish that reach consumers being contaminated microbiologically in addition to chemical and physical contamination. Microbiological contamination is of great concern because it can potentially cause disease. This study investigated Escherichia coli contamination on momar (Decapterus sp) sold in three Ambon City fish markets, namely the Arumbae fish market, the Rumah Tiga fish market and the Wayame fish market. This study used descriptive analysis with E. coli detection testing. The results of the investigation of the presence of E. coli is positive for momar in the Arumbae market and it is already exceeding the maximum contaminant of ISO 7388-2009 E. coli bacteria in fresh fish. On the other hand, E. coli bacteria is not detected for momar from the Rumah Tiga market and the Wayame market. The potential for E. coli contamination in the Arumbae market may come from the washing water used.