Research Journal of Microbiology 1816-4935 xxxx-xxxx Science International 10.3923/jm.2012.297.308 Gitahi M.G. Wangoh J. Njage P.M.K. 6 2012 7 6 Street foods play a significant role in feeding urban populations with cheap, accessible and nutritious foods. Most street foods vendors are not trained on food hygiene and safety. Consumption of street food can lead to food poisoning and food borne illnesses. Although studies on safety of street foods have been carried out in most developing countries, not much has been done in Nairobi Kenya. Fifty six samples classified using seven modified FAO food groups from 29 vending stalls were evaluated to investigate microbial safety of street foods. Standard microbiological methods were used for isolation, enumeration and identification of bacteria. Salmonella was not detected in all food samples. E. coli was qualitatively isolated in 3 food samples from 2 locations. Expressed in log10 colony forming units/gram, total coliforms were detected in vegetables of all locations at unsafe levels of 4.48 and 4.3 for Staphylococcus aureus. Total Enterococci were 2.50 and total counts at 4.71. Meats from one location had Staphylococcus aureus 4.10 log10 CFU g-1 above acceptable limits of 4.00. Mixed dishes, cereals, legumes, starchy roots and beverages were safe for consumption. Using microsatellite primer confirmed each isolated group Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterococci species and Staphylococcus aureus were related. Staphylococcal enterotoxins d and g were in Staphylococcus aureus not isolated. Vegetable foods preparations require improvement as most were served uncooked as salads. The presence of microorganisms in street foods suggests hygiene practices should be improved.

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