Prevalence and determinants of parasitic contamination on fruits and vegetables in gedeo zone, Ethiopia: Implications for foodborne disease.

Fruits and vegetables are vital to a healthy diet; however, consuming unwashed or improperly prepared produce can lead to parasitic infections. This study aims to provide evidence-based information on the extent of parasitic contamination and its associated factors on fruits and vegetables from the Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 26 to July 25, 2025, in Dilla, Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia, to assess parasitic contamination of fruits and vegetables. A multistage sampling technique was employed. Socio-demographic data and potential contamination risk factors were gathered using structured questionnaires. About 200 g of each sample was examined for intestinal parasites using direct wet mount and Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Among the 442 fruit and vegetable samples examined, 148 (33.5%) were found to be contaminated with intestinal parasites. Among the 148 samples found to be positive by iodine wet mount examination, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was the predominant parasite (13.8%). Moreover, produces displayed on the floor had significantly higher contamination than those on shelves/tables (AOR = 6.85; p < 0.001). Contamination was also significantly associated with samples from open markets, collected from the farms, and vendors with untrimmed fingernails. Parasitic contamination in fruits and vegetables was found to be high. Therefore, food and drug authorities and public health institutions should raise awareness among vendors and consumers about safe handling and consumption, while city administrations and the agricultural sector promote hygienic markets and proper farming and transportation practices.