Comparative Assessment of Salmonella and Vibrio parahaemolyticus Contamination in Shrimps from Traditional and Modern Marketplaces in Tehran, Iran

Shrimp is a major source of dietary protein in many countries, including Iran. However, contamination with pathogenic bacteria remains a significant public health concern. Salmonella and Vibrio parahaemolyticus represent important zoonotic bacteria linked to seafood, contributing to foodborne infections and posing considerable public health concerns. This study was conducted to compare the contamination of shrimp with Salmonella and Vibrio parahaemolyticus between modern and traditional markets in Tehran, Iran. A total of 320 Cotton Swabs were collected from160 fresh shrimp samples and transported to the laboratory using appropriate transport media to maintain sample integrity during transfer. Samples were classified as either farmed or wild-caught. Microbiological cultures and biochemical tests were performed to assess bacterial contamination. All analyses followed ISO 6579-1:2017 and ISO 21872-1:2017 standards. Data analysis using SPSS software showed that four samples 2.5% were contaminated with Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and eight samples 5% tested positive for Salmonella. Vibrio parahaemolyticus was detected in farmed shrimp, whereas Salmonella was found in wild-caught shrimp. All contaminated samples were obtained from a traditional market. These results underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and enhanced hygiene practices in seafood processing and distribution, particularly in traditional marketplaces, to ensure food safety. Consequently, policy measures should be directed toward modernizing traditional markets.