Parasite Load in Freshwater Fish Sold at Markets in Edo State, South South Nigeria and Implications for Food Safety

Freshwater fish serve as intermediate or paratenic hosts for numerous parasites of public health significance, including Anisakis-related nematodes, Diphyllobothrium tapeworms, and metacercariae of liver flukes, posing risks to consumers of insufficiently cooked fish. This study examines the parasite load of freshwater fish sold at major fish markets in Edo State, South South Nigeria and discusses the food safety implications. A cross-sectional survey was conducted across three major fish markets in Benin City, Auchi, and Uromi, with 300 freshwater fish specimens of five commonly sold species collected for parasitological examination. Fish were dissected, and organs including gills, muscles, liver, intestines, and body cavity were systematically examined for macroparasites and microscopic parasites. Parasites were preserved in 70 percent ethanol and formalin for morphological identification. Consumer surveys assessed raw fish consumption habits and food preparation practices. Literature from 2020 to 2024 in Nigeria's South-South zone documents multiple parasitic species of zoonotic concern in commercially traded freshwater fish, with limited regulatory screening at market level. This study aims to quantify species diversity and abundance, and assess infection intensity by fish species and market location. Findings will be submitted to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Edo State Fisheries Department. Keywords: freshwater fish parasites, food safety, fish market, Edo State, zoonotic parasites.