Evaluation of Salmonella cross contamination at retail chicken meat outlets in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study was carried out to evaluate the Salmonella cross contamination at retail chicken meat outlets in Kandy, Sri Lanka and to identify the risk factors for Salmonella contamination at retail chicken meat outlets. Fifteen retail chicken meat outlets in Kandy area were randomly selected. Pre-tested questionnaires were used to collect data for identifying risk factors of Salmonella cross contamination at retail outlets and swab samples from meat contact surfaces/utensils were obtained. Out of 57 swab samples collected from meat contact surfaces/utensils, the overall prevalence of Salmonella cross contamination was 21%. Weighing scale (33%), meat containing trays/buckets (27%) and cutting board (25%) showed the highest percentage of Salmonella prevalence whereas knife and showcase showed relatively low percentages, 14% and 9%, respectively. Retail chicken outlets with slaughtering facilities had a significantly higher prevalence of Salmonella cross contamination than those without slaughtering facilities. This higher rate of Salmonella cross contamination at retail chicken meat outlets could be attributed to lack of proper cold chains and minimal facilities, and poor level of hygiene in those outlets.