Prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales in edible ice in Thailand

Abstract

Background: The presence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria in edible ice in tropical countries is largely unknown. Methods: We evaluate the presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales in 100 edible ice samples from drink carts in 20 markets in four provinces (five markets/province) in Thailand. Ten samples of commercially sold edible ice in sealed packages were tested as controls. Results: Of 100 samples, 29 (29%) were culture positive for ESBL-producing Enterobacterales, with a median quantitative count of 2 colony-forming units (CFU)/100 mL (range, 1 to 40 CFU/100 mL). All control samples were culture negative for ESBL-producing Enterobacterales. Conclusions: AMR bacteria is commonly found in edible ice from drink carts.