Diversity of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Resistance Genes in Raw Fruits and Vegetables, Irrigation Water, and Soil Using High-Throughput Metagenomic Sequencing

The global threat posed by antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) to human health is becoming increasingly severe. Existing research on agricultural production environments has demonstrated that components such as organic fertilizers, soil, irrigation water, and agricultural products serve as significant reservoirs and vectors for resistant bacteria, posing potential risks to human health. This study aims to comprehensively characterize the prevalence of antibiotic resistance in raw fruits and vegetables, as well as in surrounding soil and irrigation water samples from agricultural production areas, using metagenomic approaches combined with bioinformatics analysis techniques, to establish public health safeguards. The study reveals that soil harbors the highest microbial diversity, including pathogenic and opportunistic pathogens capable of causing human disease. Raw fruits and vegetables predominantly carry Pseudomonas and a considerable number of resistance genes. Specifically, fruits and vegetables directly entering the market exhibit higher abundance of resistance genes and pathogens, indicating potential health risks under certain conditions. This research enhances our understanding of antibiotic resistance dissemination in agricultural production areas and underscores the importance of monitoring antibiotic resistance in agricultural systems.