Abstract
This study aimed to detect the presence of Salmonella spp. in chicken carcasses from a meat processing company in Karbala city, as well as in street foods, using both PCR and conventional methods, 100 samples were collected from five areas in Karbala city which include city center, Al-Hindiya, Al-Hussainiya, Al-Hur, and Ain Al-Tamr. 24 samples were taken from each region, the study begning from september 2024 to March 2025. The samples included three types of chicken: locally slaughtered, imported, and randomly slaughtered. Eight samples were taken from each type. The samples included the thigh and breast parts of the chicken. PCR and conventional culturing methods were used to confirm the isolates and determine the specificity and sensitivity of two assay;Statistical analysis revealed statistically significant differences between the isolation rates in the different areas and chicken species studied, and Using the conventional method, Salmonella spp. were detected in 21 out of 125 samples. The bacteria were isolated from chicken thigh and breast samples collected from five different areas within Karbala city, using selective culture media. Isolation rates varied across the different locations and types of chicken meat. The highest rates were observed in the Hindiya and Husseiniya areas, each with an isolation rate of 25%, while the lowest rate was found in the Ain al-Tamr area, where it did not exceed 4.1%, while the highest positivity rate was recorded in Al-Hussainiyah district, at 20.83% .In conclusion: The results highlight the potential of the PCR molecular technique as a valuable alternative for detecting Salmonella spp. in chicken, thanks to its high specificity and rapid processing—making it especially useful for ensuring the distribution of safe products to consumers .