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Van Damme I, Varalakshmi S, De Zutter L, Vossen E, De Smet S. Decrease of Salmonella and Escherichia coli O157:H7 counts during dry-aging of beef but potential growth of Listeria monocytogenes under certain dry-aging conditions. Food Microbiol 2022; 104:104000. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2022.104000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Vossen E, Dewulf L, Van Royen G, Van Damme I, De Zutter L, Fraeye I, De Smet S. Influence of aging time, temperature and relative humidity on the sensory quality of dry-aged Belgian Blue beef. Meat Sci 2021; 183:108659. [PMID: 34428606 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2021.108659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of aging period (0, 3, 6 or 9 weeks), aging temperature (2 versus 6 °C at 75% relative humidity, experiment 1) and relative humidity (70 versus 90% at 2 °C, experiment 2) on the sensory traits, oxidative stability and proteolysis of Belgian Blue beef. For each experiment, eight loins (M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum) from four animals (left and right side) were assigned to one of the two treatments (n = 4). Results showed no further tenderization after three weeks of aging, whereas metmyoglobin formation and lipid oxidation increased until nine weeks of aging (P < 0.05). During the nine weeks of aging, atypical flavor, odor and flavor intensity was affected (P < 0.05). This was accompanied by an increase of small peptides and other nitrogenous compounds. Aging temperature and relative humidity had only a very limited effect on the quality traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Vossen
- Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - L Dewulf
- Research Group for Technology and Quality of Animal Products, Department M(2)S, Leuven Food Science and Nutrition Research Centre (LFoRCe), KU Leuven Technology Campus Ghent, Gebroeders De Smetstraat 1, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - G Van Royen
- Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Technology and Food Science Unit, Brusselsesteenweg 370, 9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - I Van Damme
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - L De Zutter
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - I Fraeye
- Research Group for Technology and Quality of Animal Products, Department M(2)S, Leuven Food Science and Nutrition Research Centre (LFoRCe), KU Leuven Technology Campus Ghent, Gebroeders De Smetstraat 1, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - S De Smet
- Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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3
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Zeng H, De Reu K, Gabriël S, Mattheus W, De Zutter L, Rasschaert G. Salmonella prevalence and persistence in industrialized poultry slaughterhouses. Poult Sci 2021; 100:100991. [PMID: 33610890 PMCID: PMC7905466 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Salmonella contamination sources and transmission routes were studied in 5 Belgian poultry slaughterhouses. Samples from the slaughter and cutting line after cleaning and disinfection were collected, as well as neck skin samples and thighs during slaughter of the first flock. In total, 680 swab and water samples were taken from the slaughter line before slaughter. In all slaughterhouses, Salmonella was notwithstanding cleaning and disinfection still isolated from the slaughter line before start of activities. The prevalence of Salmonella in the plucking area was 10.4% (38/365) (hanging area: 5.0%, scalding tank: 5.8%, plucking machine: 17.0%); in the evisceration room, 1.5% (2/138); and in the cutting area, 2.0% (3/149). No Salmonella (0/28) was found in samples from the chilling line. On neck skin samples taken from the various lines, Salmonella prevalence was 16.1% (48/299) after plucking, 16.0% (48/300) after evisceration, 23.3% (70/300) after chilling; on thighs, prevalence was 10.0% (24/240). Nine Salmonella serotypes were identified of which Salmonella Infantis was the most common serovar (53.8%), especially in slaughterhouse A. Two contamination causes were identified; first, although all flocks had an official Salmonella negative status, this was in one case incorrect and led to an enormous contamination of the neck skins of the flock and the slaughterline (i.e., cooling water). Second, molecular typing revealed cross-contamination from flocks slaughtered 1 d before sampling. Salmonella was apparently not always eliminated by the cleaning and disinfection process and able to contaminate the carcasses of the first slaughtered flock. In conclusion, the results of this study provided practical insights for poultry production to further improve their Salmonella control, for example, Salmonella status determination closer to the slaughter date, to adapt cleaning and disinfection protocols especially for critical machinery and better hygienic designed equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Zeng
- Flanders Research Institute For Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), B-9090 Melle, Belgium; Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - K De Reu
- Flanders Research Institute For Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), B-9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - S Gabriël
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - W Mattheus
- Sciensano, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Bacterial Diseases, B-1180 Brussels, Belgium
| | - L De Zutter
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - G Rasschaert
- Flanders Research Institute For Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), B-9090 Melle, Belgium.
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Engelen F, Thiry D, Devleesschauwer B, Heyndrickx M, Mainil J, De Zutter L, Cox E. Pathogenic potential of Escherichia coli O157 and O26 isolated from young Belgian dairy calves by recto-anal mucosal swab culturing. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 131:964-972. [PMID: 33103320 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence of Escherichia coli O157 and O26 on Belgian dairy cattle farms, the presence of virulence genes in the confirmed isolates and the association of E. coli O26 presence with calf diarrhoea. METHODS AND RESULTS In total, 233 recto-anal mucosal swabs (RAMS) were obtained from healthy and diarrheic dairy calves on three farms, each alternately visited three consecutive times. RAMS were analysed for presence of E. coli O157 and O26, and stx1, stx2 and eae virulence genes. Overall, 19% of RAMS tested positive for E. coli O157, while 31% tested positive for E. coli O26. The majority of isolates possessed both stx and eae, denoting a high pathogenic potential to humans. While both serogroups persisted at farm level, persistence within the same animal over time appeared to be relatively rare. Interestingly, E. coli O26 was already abundantly present at a younger age compared to E. coli O157. Calf diarrhoea could not be associated with presence of E. coli O26. CONCLUSIONS Young dairy calves are important on-farm reservoirs of potentially pathogenic E. coli O157 and O26. A role of E. coli O26 in calf diarrhoea could not be confirmed. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY O157 and O26 are responsible for the majority of human STEC infections. Gaining more epidemiological information regarding their occurrence and persistence on cattle farms will contribute to a better understanding of STEC ecology and risk of human transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Engelen
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University (UGent), Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - D Thiry
- Bacteriology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Fundamental and Applied Research in Animals and Health (FARAH) and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège (ULiège), Liège, Belgium
| | - B Devleesschauwer
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - M Heyndrickx
- Unit Technology and Food, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Melle, Belgium
| | - J Mainil
- Bacteriology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Fundamental and Applied Research in Animals and Health (FARAH) and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège (ULiège), Liège, Belgium
| | - L De Zutter
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - E Cox
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University (UGent), Merelbeke, Belgium
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Engelen F, Thiry D, Devleesschauwer B, Mainil J, De Zutter L, Cox E. Occurrence of 'gang of five' Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli serogroups on Belgian dairy cattle farms by overshoe sampling. Lett Appl Microbiol 2020; 72:415-419. [PMID: 33277712 DOI: 10.1111/lam.13434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are foodborne pathogens responsible for global outbreaks. This study was conducted to investigate the occurrence of 'gang of five' STEC serogroups (O26, O103, O111, O145, O157) on Belgian dairy cattle farms by overshoe (OVS) sampling, and to evaluate the presence of virulence genes in the obtained isolates. A total of 88 OVS, collected from the pen beddings of 19 Belgian dairy cattle farms, were selectively enriched in mTSBn, followed by immunomagnetic separation and plating onto CT-SMAC for O157 STEC isolation, as well as in Brila broth, followed by a selective acid treatment and plating onto CHROMagarTM STEC and chromIDTM EHEC for non-O157 STEC isolation. Overall, 11 of 19 farms (58%) tested positive for presence of 'gang of five' STEC. O26 STEC was most frequently isolated from OVS (11/88; 12·5%), followed by O157 (10/88; 11·5%), O145 (3/88; 3·5%) and O103 (3/88; 3·5%). Additionally, 35% of the OVS collected from pens housing young cattle 1-24 months of age tested positive for 'gang of five' STEC, indicating that this age category is more likely to harbour STEC compared to new-born and adult cattle. Importantly, half of the obtained 'gang of five' STEC isolates (48%) possessed the eae and stx2 gene, suggesting a high pathogenic potential to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Engelen
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University (UGent), Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - D Thiry
- Bacteriology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Fundamental and Applied Research in Animals and Health (FARAH) and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège (ULiège), Liège, Belgium
| | - B Devleesschauwer
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - J Mainil
- Bacteriology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Fundamental and Applied Research in Animals and Health (FARAH) and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège (ULiège), Liège, Belgium
| | - L De Zutter
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - E Cox
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University (UGent), Merelbeke, Belgium
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Demaître N, Van Damme I, De Zutter L, Geeraerd AH, Rasschaert G, De Reu K. Occurrence, distribution and diversity of Listeria monocytogenes contamination on beef and pig carcasses after slaughter. Meat Sci 2020; 169:108177. [PMID: 32544760 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2020.108177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
In this study we investigated the prevalence and location of Listeria monocytogenes and hygiene indicator bacteria on beef and pig carcasses. Carcasses were sampled after slaughter and before cooling at eight and nine sites on the carcass, respectively. For each sample, detection and enumeration of Listeria was performed, as well as the enumeration of Total Aerobic Counts (TAC) and Enterobacteriaceae. The L. monocytogenes isolates were also typed to determine pulsotypes and clonal complexes (CC). L. monocytogenes was detected on 46% [95% CI: 35-56%] of beef and 22% [95% CI: 11-32%] of pig carcasses. Contamination levels at the different carcass sites differed considerably between beef and pigs. Genetic typing of strains suggests that carcass contamination originates from both incoming animals with transmission during slaughter practices as well as persistent (CC9) contamination from the slaughterhouse environment. These findings can be used to understand the complexity of introduction and persistence of this pathogen in slaughter facilities. Accurate correlation of L. monocytogenes presence proved unfeasible with any of the tested hygiene indicator bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Demaître
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Technology and Food Science Unit, Brusselsesteenweg 370, 9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - I Van Damme
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - L De Zutter
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - A H Geeraerd
- KU Leuven, Department of Biosystems (BIOSYST), Division MeBioS, Willem de Croylaan 42, box 2428, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - G Rasschaert
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Technology and Food Science Unit, Brusselsesteenweg 370, 9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - K De Reu
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Technology and Food Science Unit, Brusselsesteenweg 370, 9090 Melle, Belgium.
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De Zutter L, De Spiegelaere W, Brondeel C. Vraag & Antwoord. VLAAMS DIERGEN TIJDS 2019. [DOI: 10.21825/vdt.v88i4.16016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
1. Keelsnede bij noodslachting van runderen
2. Kan castratie een hond rustiger maken?
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Duarte A, Botteldoorn N, Miller W, Coucke W, Martiny D, Hallin M, Seliwiorstow T, De Zutter L, Uyttendaele M, Vandenberg O, Dierick K. Relation between broiler and humanCampylobacter jejunistrains isolated in Belgium from 2011 to 2013. J Appl Microbiol 2018; 126:277-287. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.14132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Duarte
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Food Preservation; Department of Food Safety and Food Quality; Faculty of Bioscience Engineering; Ghent University; Gent Belgium
- National Reference Laboratory for Campylobacter; Sciensano; Scientific Service Foodborne Pathogens; Brussels Belgium
| | - N. Botteldoorn
- National Reference Laboratory for Campylobacter; Sciensano; Scientific Service Foodborne Pathogens; Brussels Belgium
| | - W.G. Miller
- USDA, ARS, WRRC, Produce Safety and Microbiology; Albany CA USA
| | - W. Coucke
- Section Quality of Laboratories; Sciensano; Brussels Belgium
| | - D. Martiny
- National Reference Center for Campylobacter; Saint Pierre University Hospital; Brussels Belgium
- Department of Microbiology; LHUB-ULB; Pôle Hospitalier Universitaire de Bruxelles; Brussels Belgium
| | - M. Hallin
- National Reference Center for Campylobacter; Saint Pierre University Hospital; Brussels Belgium
- Department of Molecular Diagnosis; LHUB-ULB; Pôle Hospitalier Universitaire de Bruxelles; Brussels Belgium
| | - T. Seliwiorstow
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Food Preservation; Department of Food Safety and Food Quality; Faculty of Bioscience Engineering; Ghent University; Gent Belgium
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ghent University; Merelbeke Belgium
| | - L. De Zutter
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ghent University; Merelbeke Belgium
| | - M. Uyttendaele
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Food Preservation; Department of Food Safety and Food Quality; Faculty of Bioscience Engineering; Ghent University; Gent Belgium
| | - O. Vandenberg
- National Reference Center for Campylobacter; Saint Pierre University Hospital; Brussels Belgium
- Department of Microbiology; LHUB-ULB; Pôle Hospitalier Universitaire de Bruxelles; Brussels Belgium
- Center for Environmental Health and Occupational Health; School of Public Health; Université Libre de Bruxelles; Brussels Belgium
| | - K. Dierick
- National Reference Laboratory for Campylobacter; Sciensano; Scientific Service Foodborne Pathogens; Brussels Belgium
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Biasino W, De Zutter L, Garcia-Graells C, Uyttendaele M, Botteldoorn N, Gowda T, Van Damme I. Quantification, distribution and diversity of ESBL/AmpC-producing Escherichia coli on freshly slaughtered pig carcasses. Int J Food Microbiol 2018; 281:32-35. [PMID: 29807289 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2018.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
This study quantified cefotaxime-resistant E. coli (CREC) on nine different carcass areas of 104 freshly slaughtered pig carcasses. In 49% [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 29-69%] of the carcasses CREC could be isolated and enumerated (using Tryptone Bile Agar with X-Glucuronide supplemented with 1 mg/L cefotaxime). Proportions of positive samples varied between carcass areas from 1% [95% CI: 0-10%] (loin) to 23% [95% CI: 10-44%] (head). Maximum concentrations on positive samples ranged between -0.6 log10 CFU/cm2 (loin, elbow before evisceration) and 1.7 log10 CFU/cm2 (head). The head was significantly more frequently contaminated than the loin (p = 0.027) and ham (3% [95% CI: 1-15%]). The foreleg was significantly more frequently contaminated (20% [95% CI: 13-30%]) than the ham. Combination disk diffusion assays revealed that 81% of the CREC isolates were extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) producers, 13% were AmpC cephalosporinases (AmpC) producers and 2% ESBL and AmpC co-producers. Genotyping denoted blaCTX-M-gr1 (63%) and blaTEM (40%) as most present antibiotic resistance genes. Multiple gene combinations in one isolate and multiple combinations of genotypes and phenotypes among isolates of one sample were observed. These quantitative data can be used for intervention strategies to lower human exposure to CREC.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Biasino
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - L De Zutter
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - C Garcia-Graells
- Scientific Institute of Public Health, Service Food-Borne Pathogens, 14 Juliette Wytsman, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Uyttendaele
- Department of Food Safety & Food Quality, Faculty of Bio-Science Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - N Botteldoorn
- Scientific Institute of Public Health, Service Food-Borne Pathogens, 14 Juliette Wytsman, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - T Gowda
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - I Van Damme
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Biasino W, De Zutter L, Mattheus W, Bertrand S, Uyttendaele M, Van Damme I. Correlation between slaughter practices and the distribution of Salmonella and hygiene indicator bacteria on pig carcasses during slaughter. Food Microbiol 2017; 70:192-199. [PMID: 29173627 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2017.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the distribution of hygiene indicator bacteria and Salmonella on pig carcasses. Moreover, the relation between hygiene indicator counts and Salmonella presence as well as associations between specific slaughter practices and carcass contamination were determined for each carcass area. Seven Belgian pig slaughterhouses were visited three times to swab five randomly selected carcasses at nine different areas, after evisceration and trimming. Information about slaughter practices was collected using a questionaire. In all samples, the E. coli and Salmonella presence was analyzed and Enterobacteriaceae and total aerobic bacteria were quantified. Average total aerobic counts ranged from 3.1 (loin, pelvic duct, ham) to 4.4 log10 CFU/cm2 (foreleg). Median Enterobacteriaceae numbers varied between 0.4 (ham) an 1.8 log10 CFU/cm2 (foreleg). E. coli and Salmonella presence ranged from 15% (elbow) to 89% (foreleg) and 5% (elbow) to 38% (foreleg), respectively. Positive relations were found between hygiene indicator counts and Salmonella presence at the head, sternum, loin and throat. Several slaughter practices, such as splitting the head and incising tonsils, were associated with higher levels of hygiene indicator bacteria and Salmonella. These findings can be used to educate slaughterhouse personnel and estimate the public health risk involved in consumption of different pork cuts.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Biasino
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - L De Zutter
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - W Mattheus
- Section of Bacterial Diseases, NRC Salmonella, Scientific Institute of Public Health, J. Wytsmanstreet 14, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Bertrand
- Section of Bacterial Diseases, NRC Salmonella, Scientific Institute of Public Health, J. Wytsmanstreet 14, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Uyttendaele
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Food Preservation (LFMFP), Department of Food Safety and Food Quality, Faculty of Bio-Science Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - I Van Damme
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Van Damme I, De Zutter L, Jacxsens L, Nauta M. Control of human pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica in minced meat: Comparative analysis of different interventions using a risk assessment approach. Food Microbiol 2017; 64:83-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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12
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Vanantwerpen G, Berkvens D, De Zutter L, Houf K. Assessment of factors influencing the within-batch seroprevalence of human enteropathogenic Yersinia spp. of pigs at slaughter age and the analogy with microbiology. Prev Vet Med 2017; 137:93-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2016.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Bosmans T, De Zutter L, Deprez P. Vraag & Antwoord. VLAAMS DIERGEN TIJDS 2016. [DOI: 10.21825/vdt.v85i6.16314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Anesthetica voor ovariëctomie bij de kat
Afwezigheid van keurders vóór het slachten
Ribfracturen bij koeien
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Verraes C, Vlaemynck G, Van Weyenberg S, De Zutter L, Daube G, Sindic M, Uyttendaele M, Herman L. A review of the microbiological hazards of dairy products made from raw milk. Int Dairy J 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Verraes C, Claeys W, Cardoen S, Daube G, De Zutter L, Imberechts H, Dierick K, Herman L. A review of the microbiological hazards of raw milk from animal species other than cows. Int Dairy J 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2014.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Van Damme I, Berkvens D, Baré J, De Zutter L. Influence of isolation methods on the occurrence of plasmid-carrying Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O:3 in slaughter pig tonsils, faeces and carcass surface swabs. Int J Food Microbiol 2013; 164:32-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2013.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Revised: 03/13/2013] [Accepted: 03/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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17
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Depoorter P, Persoons D, Uyttendaele M, Butaye P, De Zutter L, Dierick K, Herman L, Imberechts H, Van Huffel X, Dewulf J. Assessment of human exposure to 3rd generation cephalosporin resistant E. coli (CREC) through consumption of broiler meat in Belgium. Int J Food Microbiol 2012; 159:30-8. [PMID: 22938836 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2012.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2012] [Revised: 05/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Acquired resistance of Escherichia coli to 3rd generation cephalosporin antimicrobials is a relevant issue in intensive broiler farming. In Belgium, about 35% of the E. coli strains isolated from live broilers are resistant to 3rd generation cephalosporins while over 60% of the broilers are found to be carrier of these 3rd generation cephalosporin resistant E. coli (CREC) after selective isolation. A model aimed at estimating the exposure of the consumer to CREC by consumption of broiler meat was elaborated. This model consists of different modules that simulate the farm to fork chain starting from primary production, over slaughter, processing and distribution to storage, preparation and consumption of broiler meat. Input data were obtained from the Belgian Food Safety agencies' annual monitoring plan and results from dedicated research programs or surveys. The outcome of the model using the available baseline data estimates that the probability of exposure to 1000 colony forming units (cfu) of CREC or more during consumption of a meal containing chicken meat is ca. 1.5%, the majority of exposure being caused by cross contamination in the kitchen. The proportion of CREC (within the total number of E. coli) at primary production and the overall contamination of broiler carcasses or broiler parts with E. coli are dominant factors in the consumer exposure to CREC. The risk of this exposure for human health cannot be estimated at this stage given a lack of understanding of the factors influencing the transfer of cephalosporin antimicrobial resistance genes from these E. coli to the human intestinal bacteria and data on the further consequences of the presence of CREC on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Depoorter
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), Staff direction of risk assessment, Belgium.
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Joris MA, Vanrompay D, Verstraete K, De Reu K, De Zutter L. Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli with particular attention to the German outbreak strain O104:H4. VLAAMS DIERGEN TIJDS 2012. [DOI: 10.21825/vdt.v81i1.18371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This review deals with the epidemiology and ecology of enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), a subset of the verocytotoxigenic Escherichia coli (VTEC), and subsequently discusses its public health concern. Attention is also given to the outbreak strain O104:H4, which has been isolated as causative agent of the second largest outbreak of the hemolytic uremic syndrome worldwide, which started in Germany in May 2011. This outbreak strain is not an EHEC as such but possesses an unusual combination of EHEC and enteroaggregative E. coli (EAggEC) virulence properties.
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Verstraete K, Robyn J, Del-Favero J, De Rijk P, Joris MA, Herman L, Heyndrickx M, De Zutter L, De Reu K. Evaluation of a multiplex-PCR detection in combination with an isolation method for STEC O26, O103, O111, O145 and sorbitol fermenting O157 in food. Food Microbiol 2011; 29:49-55. [PMID: 22029918 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2011.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2011] [Revised: 08/11/2011] [Accepted: 08/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the current study was to evaluate a multiplex PCR (mPCR) detection test combined with the evaluation of a previously described isolation method. Minced beef, raw-milk cheese and sprouted seed samples were inoculated with low amounts (7-58 cfu 25 g(-1)) of non-stressed, cold-stressed or freeze-stressed clinical STEC strains, including serogroups O26, O103, O111, O145, sorbitol fermenting (SF) O157 and non-sorbitol fermenting (NSF) O157. The inoculated pathogen was detected using a 24 h-enrichment followed by an mPCR protocol, and in parallel isolated using an enrichment step of 6 and 24 h, followed by selective plating of the enriched broth and selective plating of the immunomagnetic separation (IMS) product. Recovery results were evaluated and compared. Successful mPCR detection and isolation was obtained for non-stressed and cold-stressed STEC cells in minced beef and raw-milk cheese samples, except for serogroups O111 and SF O157. For freeze-stressed cells and sprouted seed samples, false negatives were often found. Isolation was better after 24 h-enrichment compared to 6 h-enrichment. IMS improved in some cases the isolation of non-stressed and cold-stressed cells belonging to serogroups O111 and O157 from minced beef and raw-milk cheese and freeze-stressed cells of all tested serogroups from minced beef.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Verstraete
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Technology and Food Science Unit, Brusselsesteenweg 370, 9090 Melle, Belgium
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Joris M, Pierard D, De Zutter L. Occurrence and virulence patterns of E. coli O26, O103, O111 and O145 in slaughter cattle. Vet Microbiol 2011; 151:418-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2011.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2010] [Revised: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 04/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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De Busser EV, Maes D, Houf K, Dewulf J, Imberechts H, Bertrand S, De Zutter L. Detection and characterization of Salmonella in lairage, on pig carcasses and intestines in five slaughterhouses. Int J Food Microbiol 2011; 145:279-86. [PMID: 21276632 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2011.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2010] [Revised: 12/29/2010] [Accepted: 01/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In this study, conducted at five slaughterhouses, individual pigs were sampled and followed up from stunning to cooling down of the carcasses. In this way, Salmonella prevalence and possible risk points were described. At the lairage area, pens were sampled using overshoes. At stunning and bleeding, pigs were individually identified and subsequently swabs were taken of the oral cavity and the carcass after polishing, splitting and forced chilling. Additionally, duodenum, ileum, rectum and mesenteric lymph nodes were extracted and samples were taken of the scalding water. All samples were submitted to Salmonella isolation and Salmonella isolates were serotyped and genotyped by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Of all samples taken (n = 1953), 14.1% were Salmonella positive. The prevalence of S. in the lairage area varied widely (from 0 to 100%) between the slaughterhouses. Of the sampled pigs (n = 226), 48.2% were positive in at least one sample. Statistical analysis revealed that the contamination of the lairage area was related to a higher amount of positive carcasses after polishing. Furthermore, the contamination of the carcasses after splitting and forced chilling was related to the contamination level of the carcass after polishing. A relation between the outer (carcass) contamination and the inner (gut content and lymph nodes) contamination of a pig could not be established. The predominant serotypes were S. Typhimurium (58.7%) and S. Derby (17.4%). Genotyping revealed 46 different PFGE profiles among the 276 Salmonella isolates. The same genotype at the lairage area as in the oral cavity of the pigs was found in 95%. The results indicate that the lairage area is a primary source of Salmonella in slaughter pigs and that carcass contamination originates from the environment rather than from the pig (inner contamination) itself. It further shows that slaughterhouses vary in their capability of dealing with Salmonella positive pigs. A slaughterhouse specific approach is needed, however, general guidelines should be provided to decrease the contamination level of the lairage area and the slaughter environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- E V De Busser
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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De Smet S, De Zutter L, Van Hende J, Houf K. Arcobacter contamination on pre- and post-chilled bovine carcasses and in minced beef at retail. J Appl Microbiol 2010; 108:299-305. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2009.04430.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Cobbaut K, Berkvens D, Houf K, De Deken R, De Zutter L. Escherichia coli O157 prevalence in different cattle farm types and identification of potential risk factors. J Food Prot 2009; 72:1848-53. [PMID: 19777885 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x-72.9.1848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Although the prevalence of Escherichia coli O157 on cattle farms has been examined extensively, the relationship between this pathogen and farm type has been established only rarely. A large-scale study was designed to determine the prevalence of E. coli O157 in the Flemish region of Belgium on farms of dairy cattle, beef cattle, mixed dairy and beef cattle, and veal calves. The effect of various factors on the occurrence at the pen level also was evaluated. In 2007, 180 farms were randomly selected based on region, farm size, and number of animals purchased and were examined using the overshoe sampling method. When possible, overshoes used in areas containing animals in three different age categories (< 8 months, 8 to 30 months, and > 30 months) were sampled on each farm. In total, 820 different pens were sampled and analyzed for the presence of E. coli O157 by enrichment, immunomagnetic separation, and plating on selective agar. Presumptive E. coli O157 colonies were identified using a multiplex PCR assay for the presence of the rfb(O157) and fliC(H7) genes. The statistical analysis was carried out with Stata SE/10.0 using a generalized linear regression model with a logit link function and a binomial error distribution. The overall farm prevalence of E. coli O157 was 37.8% (68 of 180 farms). The highest prevalence was found on dairy cattle farms (61.2%, 30 of 49 farms). The prevalences on beef, mixed dairy and beef, and veal calf farms were 22.7% (17 of 75 farms), 44.4% (20 of 45 farms), and 9.1% (1 of 11 farms), respectively. A significant positive correlation between age category and E. coli O157 prevalence was found only on mixed dairy and beef farms and dairy farms. No influence of farm size or introduction of new animals was demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Cobbaut
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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24
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Delhalle L, Saegerman C, Farnir F, Korsak N, Maes D, Messens W, De Sadeleer L, De Zutter L, Daube G. Salmonella surveillance and control at post-harvest in the Belgian pork meat chain. Food Microbiol 2009; 26:265-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2008.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2008] [Revised: 12/26/2008] [Accepted: 12/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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25
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De Busser EV, Dewulf J, Nollet N, Houf K, Schwarzer K, De Sadeleer L, De Zutter L, Maes D. Effect of Organic Acids in Drinking Water During the Last 2 weeks Prior to Slaughter onSalmonellaShedding by Slaughter Pigs and Contamination of Carcasses. Zoonoses Public Health 2009; 56:129-36. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1863-2378.2008.01172.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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26
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Habib I, Sampers I, Uyttendaele M, De Zutter L, Berkvens D. A Bayesian modelling framework to estimateCampylobacterprevalence and culture methods sensitivity: application to a chicken meat survey in Belgium. J Appl Microbiol 2008; 105:2002-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2008.03902.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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27
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Delhalle L, De Sadeleer L, Bollaerts K, Farnir F, Saegerman C, Korsak N, Dewulf J, De Zutter L, Daube G. Risk factors for Salmonella and hygiene indicators in the 10 largest Belgian pig slaughterhouses. J Food Prot 2008; 71:1320-9. [PMID: 18680928 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x-71.7.1320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A survey was conducted to collect data on Salmonella prevalence, Escherichia coli counts (ECCs), and aerobic bacteria colony counts (ACCs) on pig carcasses after chilling at the 10 largest Belgian pig slaughterhouses during 2000 through 2004. Potential risk factors of contamination associated with production parameters, technical descriptions of the installations, and cleaning and disinfection methods were assessed during investigations in the slaughterhouses. These variables were used first in a univariate analysis and then were extended to a multivariate analysis with a logistic mixed regression model for Salmonella and a linear mixed model for ECCs and ACCs with slaughterhouses as the random effect. The results indicated high variability concerning Salmonella contamination among the 10 slaughterhouses, with prevalence ranging from 2.6 to 34.3% according to the area of origin. The median ECC and median ACC ranged from -0.43 to 1.11 log CFU/cm2 and from 2.37 to 3.65 log CFU/cm2, respectively. The results of the logistic and linear regressions revealed that some working practices such as scalding with steam, second flaming after polishing, and complete cleaning and disinfection of the splitting machine several times a day were beneficial for reducing Salmonella prevalence, ECCs, and ACCs. Changing the carcass hooks just before chilling, using water as the cleaning method, and a higher frequency of disinfection of the lairage seemed to be protective against E. coli in the multivariate mixed linear model. The monitoring of critical points, slaughterhouse equipment, good slaughtering practices, and effective washing and disinfection are the keys to obtaining good microbiological results.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Delhalle
- Food Science Department, Microbiology Section, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B43bis, 4000 Liège, Belgium.
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Possé B, De Zutter L, Heyndrickx M, Herman L. Quantitative isolation efficiency of O26, O103, O111, O145 and O157 STEC serotypes from artificially contaminated food and cattle faeces samples using a new isolation protocol. J Appl Microbiol 2008; 105:227-35. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2008.03739.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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De Schrijver K, Buvens G, Possé B, Van den Branden D, Oosterlynck O, De Zutter L, Eilers K, Piérard D, Dierick K, Van Damme-Lombaerts R, Lauwers C, Jacobs R. Outbreak of verocytotoxin-producing E. coli O145 and O26 infections associated with the consumption of ice cream produced at a farm, Belgium, 2007. Euro Surveill 2008; 13. [DOI: 10.2807/ese.13.07.08041-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In October 2007, an outbreak of verocytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) O145 and E. coli O26 occurred among consumers of ice cream produced and sold in September 2007 at a farm in the province of Antwerp (Belgium). The ice cream was consumed at two birthday parties and also eaten at the farm. Five children, aged between two and 11 years, developed haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), and seven other co-exposed persons contracted severe diarrhoea. In three of the five HUS cases VTEC O145 infections were laboratory confirmed, one in association with VTEC O26. Identical isolates of E. coli O145 and O26 were detected with PCR and PFGE in faecal samples of patients and in ice cream leftovers from one of the birthday parties, in faecal samples taken from calves, and in samples of soiled straw from the farm at which the ice cream was produced. Ice cream was made from pasteurised milk and most likely contaminated by one of food handlers.
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Affiliation(s)
- K De Schrijver
- Department of Epidemiology and Social Medicine, University of Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Control of Infectious Diseases, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - G Buvens
- Belgian Reference Laboratory for E. coli Department of Microbiology, University of Brussels, Belgium
| | - B Possé
- Laboratory for Food Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - O Oosterlynck
- Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Catholic University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - L De Zutter
- Laboratory for Food Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K Eilers
- Department of Control of Infectious Diseases, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - D Piérard
- Belgian Reference Laboratory for E. coli Department of Microbiology, University of Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Dierick
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - C Lauwers
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - R Jacobs
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, Antwerp, Belgium
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Ghafir Y, China B, Dierick K, De Zutter L, Daube G. Hygiene indicator microorganisms for selected pathogens on beef, pork, and poultry meats in Belgium. J Food Prot 2008; 71:35-45. [PMID: 18236660 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x-71.1.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Several bacterial indicators are used to evaluate hygiene during the meat slaughtering process. The objectives of this study were to assess the Belgian baseline data on hygienic indicators and the relationship between the indicators and zoonotic agents to establish hygiene indicator criteria for cattle, pig, and chicken carcasses and meat. The study used the results from the official Belgian surveillance plan from 2000 to 2003, which included the monitoring of Escherichia coli counts (ECC), Enterobacteriaceae counts (EC), aerobic colony counts (ACC), and Pseudomonas counts (PC). The sampling method was the wet and dry swabbing technique for cattle and pig carcasses and neck skin excision for broiler and layer chicken carcasses. The 75th and 95th percentiles of ECC were -0.20 and 0.95 log CFU/cm2 for cattle carcasses, 1.20 and 2.32 log CFU/cm2 for pig carcasses, and 4.05 and 5.24 log CFU/g for chicken carcasses. The ACC were 2.1- to 4.5-log higher than the ECC for cattle, pigs, and chickens. For cattle and pig carcasses, a significant correlation between ECC, EC, and ACC was found. ECC for pork and beef samples and EC in pig carcasses were significantly higher in samples contaminated with Salmonella. In poultry samples, ECC were in general higher for samples containing Salmonella or Campylobacter. Thus, E. coli may be considered as a good indicator for enteric zoonotic agents such as Salmonella for beef, pork, and poultry samples and for Campylobacter in poultry samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Ghafir
- Belgian National Reference Laboratory in Food Microbiology for the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, Brussels, Belgium.
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Rasschaert G, Houf K, Godard C, Wildemauwe C, Pastuszczak-Frak M, De Zutter L. Contamination of carcasses with Salmonella during poultry slaughter. J Food Prot 2008; 71:146-52. [PMID: 18236675 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x-71.1.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Successively slaughtered poultry flocks were sampled for Salmonella to study the relationship between gastrointestinal colonization of the birds and contamination of the carcasses after slaughter. Samples from 56 broiler flocks and 16 spent layer and breeder flocks were collected in six slaughterhouses. Salmonella isolates were serotyped and further characterized by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Although only 7 (13%) broiler flocks were colonized with Salmonella at slaughter, carcasses of 31 (55%) broiler flocks were contaminated after slaughter. Concerning the layer and breeder flocks, 11 (69%) flocks were colonized in the gastrointestinal tract, but after slaughter, carcasses of all flocks were contaminated. The Salmonella status determined at the farm did not always correlate to the status at slaughter. On the other hand, the slaughter of Salmonella-colonized flocks did not always result in the contamination of the carcasses with the same PFGE types isolated from the gastrointestinal tract. When only uncolonized flocks were slaughtered, the carcasses of flocks were on some occasions still contaminated with Salmonella. This indicates possible cross-contamination from the slaughter equipment or transport crates. These observations show that it is difficult to reach the benefits of logistic slaughter in commercial poultry slaughterhouses.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rasschaert
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Abstract
AIMS The aim of the study was to assess the impact of Salmonella present on the slaughter line before processing on broiler carcass contamination during processing. METHODS AND RESULTS Three Belgian broiler slaughterhouses were each visited twice. Samples were taken from the slaughter line after the cleaning and the disinfection process and before slaughter of the first flock. During the slaughter of the first flock, feathers and neck skins were collected at various points of the slaughter process. Swab samples were also taken from the crates in which the birds were transported. In two slaughterhouses, the slaughter line was contaminated with Salmonella before the onset of slaughter, especially the shackles, conveyer belt and the plucking machine in the dirty zone. During slaughter, the carcasses of the first Salmonella-free flock became contaminated with the same strains as isolated previously from the slaughter line. CONCLUSION Contamination of the slaughter line with Salmonella leads to carcass contamination. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Implementation of logistic slaughter is only successful when the cleaning and disinfection process completely eliminates the Salmonella contamination of the slaughter line. Only if this is achieved, will the slaughter of Salmonella-free flocks result in the absence of Salmonella on the carcasses after slaughter.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rasschaert
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Rasschaert G, Houf K, Van Hende J, De Zutter L. Investigation of the concurrent colonization with Campylobacter and Salmonella in poultry flocks and assessment of the sampling site for status determination at slaughter. Vet Microbiol 2007; 123:104-9. [PMID: 17462837 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2007.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2006] [Revised: 03/15/2007] [Accepted: 03/22/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Fifty six broiler flocks and 20 laying hen and breeder flocks were sampled in six slaughterhouses for the presence of Campylobacter and Salmonella. Samples were taken from three different sites of the gastrointestinal tract, namely from the crop, the duodenum and the ceca. The prevalence of flocks colonized with Campylobacter and Salmonella was determined and an association between the concurrent colonization with these two pathogens was investigated. Furthermore, the best sampling site for status determination at the slaughterhouse level was evaluated. Of the broiler flocks, 73% were colonized with Campylobacter, whereas 13% were Salmonella-positive at slaughter. Concerning the laying hen and breeder flocks, all flocks were colonized with Campylobacter and 65% of the flocks were Salmonella-positive. No association was found between Campylobacter and Salmonella occurrence in broiler flocks. Since all laying hen and breeder flocks were colonized with Campylobacter, no association between the concurrent colonization with the two pathogens could be determined. At the slaughterhouse level, sampling only the duodena was sufficient to determine the Campylobacter status of poultry flocks, whereas the three sampling sites had to be analyzed to detect all flocks colonized with Salmonella.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rasschaert
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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34
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Heyndrickx M, Herman L, Vlaes L, Butzler JP, Wildemauwe C, Godard C, De Zutter L. Multiple typing for the epidemiological study of the contamination of broilers with Salmonella from the hatchery to the slaughterhouse. J Food Prot 2007; 70:323-34. [PMID: 17340865 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x-70.2.323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Eighteen Belgian broiler flocks were followed from the hatchery to the slaughterhouse by a multiple typing approach (sero-, geno-, and phage types) for the investigation of the transmission of Salmonella and its subtypes. For 12 of the 18 flocks, there was no correlation between the serotypes found preharvest and those isolated from the feces in the transport crates and on the carcasses in the slaughterhouse. Serotypes found in the crates were usually also found on the carcasses. In 5 of the 10 flocks with Salmonella-positive broilers, complex contamination patterns with the involvement of different serotypes, genotypes, or both were revealed. In two of these flocks (flocks 8 and 9), the Salmonella Enteritidis contamination of the broilers could be traced to the hatchery. In flock 9, evidence was found for the acquisition, during rearing, of a megaplasmid in the Salmonella Enteritidis strain. In the other three positive flocks (flocks 6, 7, and 10), the environment and movable material (e.g., footwear) played a determining role in the infection and shedding pattern of the broilers. For flocks 6 and 7, reared consecutively in the same broiler house, a persistent Salmonella Hadar geno/phage type predominated in the preharvest period, while another Salmonella Hadar geno/phage type was found in the house or the environment but never in the broilers. Only for the above-mentioned five flocks were the same strains that were found preharvest also recovered from the carcasses, although these strains were not predominant on the carcasses, with the exception of one flock (flock 10). In conclusion, it can be said that most of the time, Salmonella strains that contaminate Belgian broiler carcasses do not predominate in the preharvest environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Heyndrickx
- Ministry of the Flemish Community, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Unit Technology and Food, Brusselsesteenweg 370, B-9090 Melle, Belgium.
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Ghafir Y, China B, Dierick K, De Zutter L, Daube G. A seven-year survey of Campylobacter contamination in meat at different production stages in Belgium. Int J Food Microbiol 2007; 116:111-20. [PMID: 17321622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2006.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2006] [Revised: 11/03/2006] [Accepted: 12/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The presence of Campylobacter was assessed in different samples of poultry, pork and beef meat and carcasses from slaughterhouses, production plants and retail level. An introductory study from 1997 to 1999, had the purpose of establishing the optimum dilution to detect changes in prevalence and allowed a semi-quantitative estimation of poultry and pork contamination. Following this, between 2000 and 2003, 4254 samples were taken in order to study the trends. The poultry matrixes represented the greatest number and the most highly contaminated samples, with 30.9% (in 0.01 g) positive samples, 18.7% (in 1 g), 46.9% (in 25 g) and 19.6% (in 0.01 g) for broiler carcasses, broiler fillets, prepared chicken and layer carcasses, respectively. Broiler carcasses and fillets sampled at retail level were significantly less contaminated than samples from production plants. Pork, beef and veal samples were rarely contaminated and, where contamination existed, it was at a low prevalence (maximum 5.0%). The high and unvarying prevalence of Campylobacter in poultry necessitates the implementation of intervention measures at the primary production level, in addition to methods of minimizing cross-contamination at the processing level. A survey plan in line with the present study could be used in the future to monitor the effects of the planned measures and performance objectives and to follow the evolution of Campylobacter contamination at all stages of the food chain, in accordance with European legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Ghafir
- Belgian National Reference Laboratory in Food Microbiology for the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, University of Liege, Department of Food Sciences, Microbiology, Bat. B43b, Sart Tilman, 4000 Liege, Belgium.
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36
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Abstract
The possible colonization of the intestines and contamination of broilers after transport to the slaughterhouse with Campylobacter strains present in cleaned and disinfected transport containers was investigated. Seven broiler flocks with a Campylobacter-free status were sampled once just before loading at the farm and once just before slaughter. On both occasions, samples were also taken from the exterior of the birds and from the intestinal content. Transport containers used to transport the flock were sampled on the farm just before loading the birds. Campylobacters were enumerated and genotyped by flagellin gene A PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. In total, 25 of the 35 sampled containers were Campylobacter contaminated, and 30 genotypes were found. Three broiler flocks became colonized on the farm between initial status determination and transport to the slaughterhouse, and three Campylobacter-free flocks were externally contaminated after transport. In none of the seven flocks was evidence found of intestinal colonization or cocolonization due to transport in Campylobacter-contaminated containers.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rasschaert
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Van Overbeke I, Duchateau L, De Zutter L, Albers G, Ducatelle R. A Comparison Survey of Organic and Conventional Broiler Chickens for Infectious Agents Affecting Health and Food Safety. Avian Dis 2006; 50:196-200. [PMID: 16863067 DOI: 10.1637/7448-093005r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present cross-sectional study was to evaluate the health status of organic broiler chickens and the contamination rate with Salmonella and Campylobacter in organic broiler production in Belgium. The broilers were screened for antibodies against routinely monitored poultry diseases at 1 day old and at slaughter. Fecal examination for the presence of worm eggs was done at slaughter. Bacteriological examination for the detection of Salmonella and Campylobacter was performed at day 1, week 2, week 4, week 7, week 10, and slaughter. Conventional broilers of the same poultry integration and reared in the same geographic area were also screened and served as reference. Serologic data indicated lower antibody titers against infectious bronchitis and Newcastle disease in organic flocks. No significant differences could be found in prevalence of Salmonella between organic and conventional broilers at slaughter. In contrast, Campylobacter infections at slaughter were significantly higher in organic flocks. Organic flocks most probably become infected with Campylobacter between week 7 and week 10. Worm eggs were found in neither the organic flocks nor the conventional flocks. In conclusion, there are indications that the respiratory health status is better in organic broilers but that organic flocks are more often infected with Campylobacter than are conventional flocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Van Overbeke
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Poultry Diseases, University of Ghent, Merelbeke, Belgium
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38
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Nollet N, Houf K, Dewulf J, Catry B, De Zutter L, De Kruif A, Maes D. Variability in Antimicrobial Resistance amongSalmonella entericaStrains from Fattening Pigs and Sows. Microb Drug Resist 2006; 12:74-81. [PMID: 16584313 DOI: 10.1089/mdr.2006.12.74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance and different resistance patterns for Salmonella isolates collected from Belgian sows and fattening pigs at different ages and at slaughter. The most frequently isolated serotypes were S. Typhimurium (42.3%), S. Derby (25.1%), S. Goldcoast (7.3%), and S. Infantis (4.8%). All 901 isolates were submitted to antimicrobial susceptibility testing for 14 compounds using the disc agar diffusion test. The highest percentage of resistance was found to oxytetracycline (34.2%), streptomycin (32.5%), sulfamethizole (27.6%), and ampicillin (24.9%). Three of the isolates showed resistance to cephalosporins and none to second-generation fluoroquinolones. Multiresistance (resistance to > or =2 antimicrobials) was observed in 33.2% of the strains. Differences in resistance patterns were observed between and within serotypes as well as genotypes. A significant lower proportion (p < 0.01) of resistant strains was recovered in fecal samples from sows (23/56) than from fattening pigs during the weaning (30/30), growing (79/85), and finishing periods (45/52). The proportion of resistant strains recovered from fecal samples taken at the herd (154/167) was higher than in the samples collected at the slaughterhouse (75/140). When designing antimicrobial resistance surveillance programs for Salmonella in pigs, it is important to take multiple samples within each herd from both sows and fattening pigs at different time points.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Nollet
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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39
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Abstract
The relation between internal carriage and surface contamination with thermophilic Campylobacter species in broilers was examined by molecular typing methods. Samples from 39 flocks were collected in three Belgian poultry slaughterhouses. From each flock, crop swabs before slaughter and intestines and neck skins during slaughter were collected. A total of 309 isolates were identified at species level and further characterized by flagellin gene A PCR/restriction fragment length polymorphism and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Isolates were identified as Campylobacter jejuni (90%), Campylobacter coli (8.7%), and Campylobacter lari (2.2%), and 27 genotypes could be distinguished by combining the two molecular methods. Seventy-two percent of the flocks arriving at the abattoir were colonized with campylobacters. After slaughter, 79% of the flocks had contaminated neck skins. In six flocks, genotypes isolated from the neck skins were also found in the alimentary tract from previously slaughtered flocks. Four of these flocks were initially free of Campylobacter. These four flocks might have had no contaminated carcasses after logistic slaughtering.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rasschaert
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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40
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Rasschaert G, Houf K, Imberechts H, Grijspeerdt K, De Zutter L, Heyndrickx M. Comparison of five repetitive-sequence-based PCR typing methods for molecular discrimination of Salmonella enterica isolates. J Clin Microbiol 2005; 43:3615-23. [PMID: 16081887 PMCID: PMC1234001 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.43.8.3615-3623.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2004] [Revised: 01/19/2005] [Accepted: 04/12/2005] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Five repetitive-element PCR (rep-PCR) techniques [primer sets ERIC1R-ERIC2 and REP1R-REP2I and primers ERIC2, BOXA1R, and (GTG)5] were evaluated for the discrimination of Salmonella enterica isolates at the serotype level. On the basis of number, even distribution over the whole fingerprint, and clarity of bands in the fingerprints, the enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) primer set and the (GTG)5 primer were chosen for use in the following experiments. For these two primer sets, reproducibility was tested on different lysates of five selected serotypes of Salmonella in the same PCR by using three different PCR runs. Reproducibility was poor between different PCR runs but high within the same PCR run. Furthermore, 80 different serotypes and five isolates which were not typeable by serotyping were fingerprinted. All strains were typeable by the ERIC primer set and the (GTG)5 primer and generated unique fingerprints, except for some strains with incomplete antigenic codes. Finally, 55 genetically different strains belonging to 10 serotypes were fingerprinted to examine the genetic diversity of the rep-PCR within serotypes. This experiment showed that one serotype did not always correlate to only one ERIC or (GTG)5 fingerprint but that the fingerprint heterogeneity within a serotype was limited. In epidemiological studies, ERIC- and/or (GTG)5-PCR can be used to limit the number of strains that have to be serotyped. The reproducibility of isolates in one PCR run, the discriminatory power, and the genetic diversity (stability) of the fingerprint were similar for the Eric primer set and the (GTG)5 primer, so both are equally able to discriminate Salmonella serotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Rasschaert
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary
Public Health and Food Safety, Merelbeke, Veterinary and Agrochemical Research Centre, Brussels, Ministry of the Flemish Community, Center for Agricultural Research, Department for
Animal Product Quality and Transformation Technology, Melle, Belgium
| | - K. Houf
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary
Public Health and Food Safety, Merelbeke, Veterinary and Agrochemical Research Centre, Brussels, Ministry of the Flemish Community, Center for Agricultural Research, Department for
Animal Product Quality and Transformation Technology, Melle, Belgium
| | - H. Imberechts
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary
Public Health and Food Safety, Merelbeke, Veterinary and Agrochemical Research Centre, Brussels, Ministry of the Flemish Community, Center for Agricultural Research, Department for
Animal Product Quality and Transformation Technology, Melle, Belgium
| | - K. Grijspeerdt
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary
Public Health and Food Safety, Merelbeke, Veterinary and Agrochemical Research Centre, Brussels, Ministry of the Flemish Community, Center for Agricultural Research, Department for
Animal Product Quality and Transformation Technology, Melle, Belgium
| | - L. De Zutter
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary
Public Health and Food Safety, Merelbeke, Veterinary and Agrochemical Research Centre, Brussels, Ministry of the Flemish Community, Center for Agricultural Research, Department for
Animal Product Quality and Transformation Technology, Melle, Belgium
| | - M. Heyndrickx
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary
Public Health and Food Safety, Merelbeke, Veterinary and Agrochemical Research Centre, Brussels, Ministry of the Flemish Community, Center for Agricultural Research, Department for
Animal Product Quality and Transformation Technology, Melle, Belgium
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41
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Chahed A, Ghafir Y, China B, Dierick K, De Zutter L, Piérard D, Daube G. Survey of the contamination of foodstuffs of animal origin by Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli serotype O157:H7 in Belgium from 1999 to 2003. Euro Surveill 2005. [DOI: 10.2807/esm.10.03.00527-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A survey of the prevalence of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) of O157 serotype in foodstuffs of animal origin (beef, veal, pork, chicken, fish) from 1999 to 2003 in Belgium was performed. STEC strains were only isolated from beef with a prevalence of 0.73%. This percentage is low in comparison with the prevalence in other countries. Among the 76 isolated STEC O157 strains, 75% belonged to the serotype O157:H7 and 25% to the serotype O157 non H7. Moreover, the most frequent pathotype was eae stx2 ehxA (74%).
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chahed
- Food Sciences department– Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, Belgium
| | - Y Ghafir
- Food Sciences department– Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, Belgium
| | - B China
- Food Sciences department– Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, Belgium
| | - K Dierick
- Scientific Public Health Institute, Laboratory of Microbiology, Brussels, Belgium
| | - L De Zutter
- Food Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Gent, Belgium
| | - D Piérard
- Department of Microbiology, Academic Hospital, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - G Daube
- Food Sciences department– Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, Belgium
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42
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Chahed A, Ghafir Y, China B, Dierick K, De Zutter L, Piérard D, Daube G. Survey of the contamination of foodstuffs of animal origin by Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli serotype O157:H7 in Belgium from 1999 to 2003. Euro Surveill 2005; 10:33-6. [PMID: 15827369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A survey of the prevalence of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) of O157 serotype in foodstuffs of animal origin (beef, veal, pork, chicken, fish) from 1999 to 2003 in Belgium was performed. STEC strains were only isolated from beef with a prevalence of 0.73%. This percentage is low in comparison with the prevalence in other countries. Among the 76 isolated STEC O157 strains, 75% belonged to the serotype O157:H7 and 25% to the serotype O157 non H7. Moreover, the most frequent pathotype was eae stx2 ehxA (74%).
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chahed
- Food Sciences department- Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, Belgium
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43
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Nollet N, Maes D, De Zutter L, Duchateau L, Houf K, Huysmans K, Imberechts H, Geers R, de Kruif A, Van Hoof J. Risk factors for the herd-level bacteriologic prevalence of Salmonella in Belgian slaughter pigs. Prev Vet Med 2004; 65:63-75. [PMID: 15454327 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2004.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2003] [Revised: 06/01/2004] [Accepted: 06/21/2004] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Herd-level risk factors for salmonellosis in pigs were investigated in a cross-sectional study on 62 Belgian farrow-to-finish pig herds belonging to one slaughterhouse cooperative. Data concerning housing and ventilation, management, hygiene, biosecurity, production parameters, feeding, disease control and transport to the slaughterhouse were collected during a herd visit by means of a questionnaire. The percentage of positive animals in a slaughterhouse delivery, as determined by qualitative Salmonella isolation in the mesenteric lymph nodes taken from 30 slaughter pigs, was the outcome variable. All samples were taken in 4 different slaughterhouses. Variables first were submitted to a univariable analysis using a logistic mixed regression model, with herd as random effect. Variables which were related to the Salmonella prevalence (P < 0.05) were analysed further in a multivariable model. The clustering of Salmonella infection within a pen also was studied in a generalised mixed model with pen as random effect. Salmonella isolates were identified by serotype. In 57 (92%) of the herds, at least one sample was found positive for Salmonella. The median percentage of positive Salmonella samples per delivery was 64% (range: 0-100%). In the multivariable model, only type of floor was related significantly to the prevalence: 100% (95% CI 88-100) for herds with <50% slatted floors to 54% (36-70) for herds with fully slatted floors. The results from the analysis should be interpreted with care because only 62 herds were included in the study. Clustering between pigs from the same pen could not be demonstrated (variance +/- S.D.: 0.11 +/- 0.16). S. typhimurium (30%) and S. derby (20%) were most common among the 23 different serotypes that were found.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Nollet
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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44
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Herman L, Heyndrickx M, Grijspeerdt K, Vandekerchove D, Rollier I, De Zutter L. Routes for Campylobacter contamination of poultry meat: epidemiological study from hatchery to slaughterhouse. Epidemiol Infect 2004; 131:1169-80. [PMID: 14959785 PMCID: PMC2870067 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268803001183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
From April 1998 to March 2000, 18 broiler flocks were followed from the hatchery to the slaughterhouse. Campylobacter was not found in the hatchery, 1-day-old chicks or in the rearing house before the arrival of the chicks. The infection of broiler flocks increased continuously during the rearing time, with a total of seven positive flocks at the end of rearing. Farms with Campylobacter-positive broilers were characterized by the circulation of Campylobacter in the environment (puddles, dung hill) and on the footwear of the farmer. The administration of antibiotics did not significantly reduce Campylobacter shedding. With the exception of one flock during rearing and a few flocks in the slaughterhouse with a mixed Campylobacter coli-Campylobacter jejuni infection, C. jejuni exclusively was found both during rearing and on the carcasses. A significant correlation exits between the contamination of the broilers during rearing and the carcasses after processing. No slaughterhouse was able to avoid contamination of carcasses when status-positive animals were delivered. Moreover, six negatively delivered flocks yielded positive carcasses, the result of a supplementary contamination, which occurred during transport and slaughtering.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Herman
- Agricultural Research Centre, Department of Animal Product Quality, Brusselsesteenweg 370, B-9090 Melle, Belgium
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45
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Tutenel AV, Pierard D, Vandekerchove D, Van Hoof J, De Zutter L. Sensitivity of methods for the isolation of Escherichia coli O157 from naturally infected bovine faeces. Vet Microbiol 2003; 94:341-6. [PMID: 12829388 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1135(03)00121-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
At present, no standard protocol has been described to detect the presence of Escherichia coli O157 in cattle faeces. Therefore, the sensitivity of 26 different isolation methods was determined in order to recommend a method of choice. Faeces samples from 17 different beef cattle at a farm previously found positive for E. coli O157 were subdivided into a total of 40 samples. It was not known whether the 17 cattle shed E. coli O157 at the time of sampling. At another farm where cattle have been found negative for E. coli O157 on different occasions, five faeces samples were collected. Two methods yielded the highest sensitivity (74%): 6h enrichment in modified tryptone soya broth supplemented with novobiocin (mTSBn) followed by an immunomagnetic separation (IMS) with (i) Dynal beads or (ii) Captivate beads and selective plating on Rainbow agar (RA) plates. Enrichment for 6h was significantly better than 24h enrichment. Only after 24h, buffered peptone water (BPw) was significantly better than mTSBn. A sensitivity of 82% was obtained only when the two most sensitive tests were done simultaneously. Because none of the tests gave 100% sensitivity, it can be concluded that isolation rates of E. coli O157 from bovine faeces using only one of the tested procedures results in an underestimation of the incidence of E. coli O157 in cattle. Performing more than one test on the samples must be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Tutenel
- Department of Veterinary Food Inspection, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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46
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Tutenel AV, Pierard D, Van Hoof J, Cornelis M, De Zutter L. Isolation and molecular characterization of Escherichia coli O157 isolated from cattle, pigs and chickens at slaughter. Int J Food Microbiol 2003; 84:63-9. [PMID: 12781955 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1605(02)00395-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
From 1999 until 2001, 3625 food samples were examined for the presence of Escherichia coli O157. Samples were from bovine origin (ground beef, n=549; carcasses, n=2452), calves (carcasses, n=147), chicken (breast, n=203; carcasses, n=71) and pigs (carcasses, n=85; trimmings, n=118). Vidas ECO detected 451 (12%) samples positive, but from only 27 (0.74%) samples was E. coli O157 isolated. One strain was isolated from bovine ground beef (0.18%), one from a pig carcass (1.17%) and all others were isolated from bovine carcasses (1.02%). All strains possessed the attaching-and-effacing gene, the enterohemorrhagic plasmid and verotoxin (VT) genes, except the strain isolated from the pig carcass that was therefore eliminated. Six of the strains were urease-positive. Strains were typed by two DNA fingerprinting methods: random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). PFGE revealed a similarity of 71.05%, while RAPD was 77.36% similar. None of the typing methods were able to classify all urease-positive strains to one pattern. Strains in the same PFGE cluster did not belong to one RAPD cluster. This paper highlights that Belgian fresh meat at retail level can be contaminated with E. coli O157 and that two different typing methods divide strains into different types.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Tutenel
- Department of Veterinary Food Inspection, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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47
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Ghafir Y, Daube G, Dierick K, De Zutter L, Cornelis M, Jouret M. Assessment of microbiological criteria for regular checks of faecal contamination and general hygiene in Belgian establishments producing meat. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.3166/sda.23.104-106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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48
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Heyndrickx M, Vandekerchove D, Herman L, Rollier I, Grijspeerdt K, De Zutter L. Routes for salmonella contamination of poultry meat: epidemiological study from hatchery to slaughterhouse. Epidemiol Infect 2002; 129:253-65. [PMID: 12403101 PMCID: PMC2869884 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268802007380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Data were collected on the prevalence of salmonella at different stages during the life cycle of 18 broiler flocks on different farms as well as during slaughter in different poultry slaughterhouses. For the isolation of salmonella, the highest sensitivity (93.9%) was obtained by enrichment in the semi-solid agar Diasalm. The 'overshoe method' utilizing several pairs of overshoes provided the highest sensitivity for determining the salmonella status of the broilers during rearing. A clear decrease of the relative importance of the first production stages was demonstrated for the salmonella contamination of the end product, whereas horizontal transmission of salmonella to broilers during rearing and to broiler carcasses in the slaughterhouse was shown to be the main determinative factor. Ten of the 18 flocks received a salmonella positive status with the highest shedding occurring during the first 2 weeks of rearing. The shedding of the animals was significantly negatively influenced by the use of subtherapeutic or therapeutic doses of antibiotics. The intake of portable material in the broiler house was identified as the most important risk factor for horizontal transmission. Significant associations were found between the contamination level of a flock and hygiene of the broiler house, feed and water in the broiler house and both animal and non-animal material sampled in the environment. No correlation was found between contamination during the rearing period and contamination found after slaughtering. The presence of faecal material in the transport crates and predominantly the identity of the slaughterhouse seemed to be the determining factors for carcass quality. Improved hygiene management during transport of broilers and in some slaughterhouses could significantly reduce the risk of salmonella contamination of poultry meat.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Heyndrickx
- Center for Agricultural Research, Department for Animal Product Quality, Melle, Belgium
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49
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Tutenel AV, Pierard D, Uradzinski J, Jozwik E, Pastuszczak M, Van Hende J, Uyttendaele M, Debevere J, Cheasty T, Van Hoof J, De Zutter L. Isolation and characterization of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:1H7 from cattle in Belgium and Poland. Epidemiol Infect 2002; 129:41-7. [PMID: 12211595 PMCID: PMC2869873 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268802007197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
EHEC O157 were isolated from faeces of Belgian and Polish beef slaughter cattle. In Belgium, 1281 faecal samples were analysed by immunomagnetic separation [IMS] after enrichment in buffered peptone water from June 1998 till July 1999. Eighty-one samples (6.3%) were positive for E. coli O157. Phage type 8 was most frequently found. Bulls between 1 and 2 years old, slaughtered in September and October were most frequently found positive. Atypical biochemical features were observed in some isolates: 22 (27%) isolates were urease positive and 1 (1.2%) isolate was unable to ferment lactose. In Poland, 551 faecal samples, taken from January 1999 till December 1999, were examined using exactly the same techniques. Four faecal samples (0.7%) were positive for O157 EHEC, yielding seven phage type 8 isolates. All positive samples were from cattle younger than 2 years. Positive samples occurred in August, September and October.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Tutenel
- Department of Veterinary Food Inspection, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Houf K, Devriese LA, De Zutter L, Van Hoof J, Vandamme P. Development of a new protocol for the isolation and quantification of Arcobacter species from poultry products. Int J Food Microbiol 2001; 71:189-96. [PMID: 11789937 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1605(01)00605-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
None of the presently available selective supplements for the specific isolation of Arcobacter species allows the growth of Arcobacter butzleri, A. cryaerophilus and A. skirrowii and at the same time fully suppresses the accompanying flora present in poultry and poultry products. Furthermore, little is known about the contamination levels of poultry with Arcobacter species. In this study, a new selective supplement comprising amphotericin B (10 mg/l), cefoperazone (16 mg/l), 5-fluorouracil (100 mg/l), novobiocin (32 mg/l) and trimethoprim (64 mg/l) was developed. With a new isolation procedure, including enrichment in Arcobacter broth with the selective supplement, incubated for 24 to 48 h at 28 degrees C under microaerobic conditions, arcobacters were isolated from 100% (n = 34) of neck skin of laying hens and from 90% (n = 71) of similar samples from broilers. Of the broiler breast meat samples examined (n = 52), 65% were found to be contaminated with these bacteria. In 64% of the samples, A. butzleri was the only Arcobacter species isolated. In 9% of the samples, A. cryaerophilus was the only species present, while 11% of the samples were positive for both species simultaneously. Using direct isolation on the selective agar medium developed in this study, incubated for 24 to 48 h under microaerobic conditions at 28 degrees C. 32 out of 45 broiler carcasses and 6 out of 25 broiler breast meat samples carried a bacterial load of arcobacters of 10(2) to 10(3) cfu/g. The prevalence of Arcobacter in Belgian poultry was found higher than the prevalence of thermophilic Campylobacter species in each of the poultry categories examined. The enrichment procedure and the direct plating method were validated for the isolation of A. skirrowii. For this species, growth performance was less than the other two Arcobacter species and it was not isolated nor detected by m-PCR from the naturally contaminated poultry samples examined. This new protocol provides a fast and reliable method for the isolation of Arcobacter species from poultry and can contribute to more comprehensive epidemiological investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Houf
- Department of Veterinary Food Inspection, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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