Parasite contamination in vegetables sold in four markets in Metropolitan Lima

Introduction. Parasiticinfections areaglobal healthconcern. In2023, the World Health Organizationestimated that 24% of the global population was infected. Objective. To determine the frequency and types of parasites in vegetables from markets in Lima Metropolitana in 2023 and identify the most contaminated ones. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 210 samples of carrots, tomatoes, parsley, lettuce, spinach, and onions from four markets. Parasitic identification was carried out using microscopic observation and sedimentation, with double reading and a third review in case of discrepancies. Results. Spinach showed a parasitic frequency of 66.7%, and lettuce 41.7%. The most common parasites were free-living flagellates and Strongyloides stercoralis. The market with the highest parasitic contamination was Villa Jardín. Conclusion. The overall frequency of parasitosis in vegetables was 22.4%. Spinach was the most affected vegetable, and free-living flagellates were the most common parasites.