<![CDATA[Mold contamination on frequently touched surfaces in public spaces may indicate inadequate environmental hygiene and the potential presence of fungal microorganisms. This study aimed to identify mold contamination on refrigerator door handles in a minimarket located in East Wonggaditi Village, Gorontalo City. A descriptive study was conducted using ten swab samples collected from the right and left refrigerator door handles at five sampling points. The samples were cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) and incubated at 30°C for 14 days. Mold growth was evaluated through macroscopic and microscopic observations. The results showed mold growth in all ten samples, indicating the presence of viable fungal contaminants on the examined refrigerator handles. Macroscopic observations revealed colonies with white to yellowish-white coloration and cotton-like textures. Microscopic observations showed fungal structures, including hyphae, conidia, vesicles, and conidiophores, with morphological characteristics suggestive of Aspergillus spp. However, species-level identification was not confirmed. These findings demonstrate that refrigerator door handles in the investigated minimarket were contaminated with mold and highlight the importance of maintaining hygiene on frequently touched surfaces. Routine cleaning and appropriate sanitation practices are recommended to help reduce surface contamination. Further research using quantitative fungal analysis and confirmatory identification methods is needed to determine contamination levels and establish the identity of the fungal isolates.]]>
