A systematic review and meta-analysis of antibiotic resistance of foodborne pathogenic bacteria

A study examining antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in foodborne bacteria in Zambia reveals a significant increase over the past five years. Salmonella spp., E. coli., and L. monocytogens are the most common foodborne bacteria in Zambia. The prevalence of bacterial pathogens in food samples was 11%, while in human samples was 14%. The rise is attributed to the bacteria’s ability to develop resistance mechanisms and spread between humans, animals, and the environment. Ineffective surveillance, inadequate management, and public unawareness further exacerbate the problem, necessitating effective health sector policy implementations.