Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the emerging pathogens worldwide. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of MRSA among different meat products retailed in local markets in Alexandria Governorate, Egypt. The prevalence of MRSA (conventional identification) was 24% (6/25), 28% (7/25), 8% (2/25) and 8% (2/25) in Sausage, Burger, Luncheon and Pasterami respectively with overall prevalence 17 % (17/100), While only 12% (3/25), 20% (5/25), 8% (2/25) and 8% (2/25) of Sausage, Burger, Luncheon and Pasterami respectively were carring the mec A gene by genotyping identification (PCR) with overall prevalence 12 % (12/100), It was observed that all MRSA suspected strains 100% (17/17) was phenotypically resistant to oxacillin and benzyl penicillin , and with subsequent molecular screening for mecA gene; all isolates possessed this gene except 3 isolates from Sausage samples and 2 isolates of Burger samples. All MRSA isolates in this study expressed multidrug-resistant for at least three antibiotics which may constitute a public health concern. Therefore, strict hygienic measures should be carried out to preserve such meat products from emerging multidrug-resistant MRSA and to ensure food safety.

Key words: Meat products, S.aureus, MRSA,VITEC , PCR ,nuc gene , mec A gene