COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FUNGAL CONTAMINANT IN SLICED WATERMELON (Citrullus lanatus) AND PINEAPPLE (Ananas comosus) IN JOS SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA.

Food safety is a paramount concern, and the presence of fungal contaminants in fresh fruits is a topic of increasing importance. This study conducted a comparative analysis of fungal contaminants in sliced watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and pineapples (Ananas comosus) sold in Jos South local government. The objectives were to isolate and identify the fungal species present in the sliced fruits and to determine the market with the highest level of contamination. Samples were collected from four selected markets; Bukuru, Abattoir, Vwang, and Building Materials markets. Standard microbiological techniques were used for isolation and identification of fungal species. The results revealed variations in the types of fungal contaminants between sliced watermelon and pineapple. The species of fungal contaminants isolated are; Aspergillus spp, Rhizopus spp, Penicillum spp, Alternaria spp, Rhodotorula spp and Mucor. Results also showed that Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Penicillium, Alternaria, Rhodotorula, and Mucor species were present across the samples. Among these, Mucor had the highest frequency of occurrence (44.44%) in samples from Building Materials market, while Alternaria was found only in Vwang market (11.11%). Vwang market recorded the highest diversity of fungal isolates. The findings indicate that poor handling, unhygienic display, and exposure of sliced fruits in open markets contribute significantly to fungal contamination. The study emphasizes the need for improved hygiene practices, and consumer awareness to reduce fungal-related health risks associated with consuming sliced fruits sold in open markets.. Fruit handlers and vendors should also be educated on proper sanitary way of processing the fruit in order to reduce microbial contamination and poisoning.