Molecular Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Processed Red Meat-Derived Escherichia coli Isolates

This study aimed to determine the presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes (blade, blush, bloat, blast-M), sulfonamide resistance genes (sul1, sul2, and sul3), and integrin genes (int1, int2, and int3) in Escherichia coli isolates isolated from processed red meat samples collected in Adıyaman Province, Türkiye. A total of 14 E. coli isolates were analyzed using a molecular technique. PCR results revealed that several isolates carried multiple resistance genes simultaneously. Isolates harboring both ESBL and sulfonamide resistance genes were identified as 19B, 16B, 15B, and 2B, while those carrying integrin and sulfonamide resistance genes were 14A, 19A, 19B, 13A, and 15B. Only isolates 19B and 15B contained all three gene groups. These findings indicate that foodborne E. coli strains may possess multiple antibiotic resistance mechanisms, posing a potential public health risk. The study highlights the importance of implementing molecular surveillance programs to monitor antibiotic resistance within the food safety framework.