Microbial Contamination, Multidrug Resistance, and Pathogenicity of Traditional Beverages Sold in Elele, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Traditionally consumed drinks are common in Nigeria and are usually prepared under informal conditions, which could increase their risk of microbial contamination and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study sought to assess the microbiological quality and health risks associated with the consumption of informally prepared drinks in Elele town, Rivers State. Five drinks commonly consumed in Nigeria—Zobo drink, Soy Milk drink, Tiger Nut drink, Lemon drink, and Gin drink—were obtained from five different sources. Microbial enumeration and identification were done using standard techniques. Antibiotic sensitivity patterns were evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique and the Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index (MARI) method. Selected multidrug-resistant isolates were further evaluated for pathogenic potential using an in vivo mouse model. The beverages showed low pH values (2.31 to 5.53), and microbial load ranged from 247 to 990 CFU/mL. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from all the beverages (100%), while Bacillus spp., Shigella spp., and Candida spp. were also isolated at 80%, 40%, and 20%, respectively. Resistance to the tested antibiotics was high, with amoxicillin-clavulanate, imipenem/cilastatin, and ampliclox showing the highest resistance, while ofloxacin and levofloxacin showed the highest activity. Similarly, the MARI range was 0.2-0.8, indicating multidrug resistance. Although the body weight and body temperature of the mice exposed to the beverages did not change significantly (p > 0.05), hematological and histopathological changes were observed. Beverages commonly used by the people of Elele town are associated with Multidrug-Resistance-Traditional-Beverages, and the risk of AMR to the town's residents is of major public health significance.