Poultry Chain Research Articles

Serotype Distribution and Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella Isolates from Poultry Sources in China.

Salmonella is an important zoonotic pathogen, of which poultry products are important reservoirs. This study analyzed the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and characterization of Salmonella from broiler and laying hen sources in China. A total of 138 (12.27%) strains of Salmonella were isolated from 1125 samples from broiler slaughterhouses (20.66%, 44/213), broiler farms (18.21%, 55/302), and laying hen farms (6.39%, 39/610). Multiplex PCR was used to identify the serotypes. Antibiotic susceptibility testing to a set of 21 antibiotics was performed and all strains were screened by PCR for 24 selected antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). In addition, 24 strains of Salmonella were screened out by whole-genome sequencing together with 65 released Salmonella genomes to evaluate phylogenetic characteristics, multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and plasmid carriage percentages. A total of 11 different serotypes were identified, with the dominance of S. Enteritidis (43/138, 31.16%), S. Newport (30/138, 21.74%), and S. Indiana (19/138, 13.77%). The results showed that S. Enteritidis (34.34%, 34/99) and S. Newport (51.28%, 20/39) were the dominant serotypes of isolates from broilers and laying hens, respectively. The 138 isolates showed the highest resistance to sulfisoxazole (SXZ, 100%), nalidixic acid (NAL, 54.35%), tetracycline (TET, 47.83%), streptomycin (STR, 39.86%), ampicillin (AMP, 39.13%), and chloramphenicol (CHL, 30.43%), while all the strains were sensitive to both tigacycline (TIG) and colistin (COL). A total of 45.65% (63/138) of the isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains, and most of them (61/63, 96.83%) were from broiler sources. The results of PCR assays revealed that 63.77% of the isolates were carrying the quinolone resistance gene qnrD, followed by gyrB (58.70%) and the trimethoprim resistance gene dfrA12 (52.17%). Moreover, a total of thirty-four ARGs, eighty-nine virulence genes, and eight plasmid replicons were detected in the twenty-four screened Salmonella strains, among which S. Indiana was detected to carry the most ARGs and the fewest plasmid replicons and virulence genes compared to the other serotypes. This study revealed a high percentage of multidrug-resistant Salmonella from poultry sources, stressing the importance of continuous monitoring of Salmonella serotypes and antimicrobial resistance in the poultry chain, and emergency strategies should be implemented to address this problem.

Assessing the environmental sustainability of consumer-centric poultry chain in the UK through life cycle approaches and the household simulation model

Chicken fillets, predominantly encased in disposable plastic packaging, represent a common perishable commodity frequently found in the shopping baskets of British consumers, with an annual slaughter exceeding 1.1 billion chickens. The associated environmental implications are of considerable significance. However, a noticeable gap exists concerning the household-level ramifications of chicken meat consumption, which remains a prominent driver (165 kg CO2eyr−1 per capita) of environmental impacts in the United Kingdom (UK). This study's primary objective is to integrate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology with insights derived from a spectrum of interventions simulated within the Household Simulation Model (HHSM). The interventions that are simulated are influenced by various consumer behaviours related to the purchase, consumption, storage and disposal of chicken fillets. The overarching aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the environmental consequences associated with each intervention.The research encompasses eight distinct household archetypes and the UK average, with a focus on discerning differences in their environmental influence. The introduction of shelf-life extension measures leads to a reduction in the overall environmental impacts (in μPt), with reductions ranging from 1 % to 18 %. Concurrently, waste treatment's environmental burdens can be curtailed by 9 % to 69 % for the UK average. Of the 12 interventions tested, the intervention that combines a one-day extension in the shelf life of open packs and a three-day extension for unopened packs leads to the greatest reduction in environmental impacts, at 18 % for the entire process and 69 % for the waste treatment. This intervention is estimated to yield annual reductions of 130,722 t of CO2 emissions across the entire process and 34,720 t of CO2 emissions from waste treatment, as compared to the default scenario. These findings demonstrate the importance of integrating consumer behaviour, food waste, and packaging considerations within the domain of food LCA research.

Decoding Klebsiella pneumoniae in poultry chain: unveiling genetic landscape, antibiotic resistance, and biocide tolerance in non-clinical reservoirs.

The rise of antibiotic resistance in the food chain is influenced by the use of antimicrobial agents, such as antibiotics, metals, and biocides, throughout the entire farm-to-fork continuum. Besides, non-clinical reservoirs potentially contribute to the transmission of critical pathogens such as multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae. However, limited knowledge exists about the population structure and genomic diversity of K. pneumoniae circulating in conventional poultry production. We conducted a comprehensive characterization of K. pneumoniae across the whole chicken production chain (7 farms; 14 flocks + environment + meat, 56 samples; 2019-2022), exploring factors beyond antibiotics, like copper and quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs). Clonal diversity and adaptive features of K. pneumoniae were characterized through cultural, molecular (FT-IR), and whole-genome-sequencing (WGS) approaches. All except one flock were positive for K. pneumoniae with a significant increase (p < 0.05) from early (n = 1/14) to pre-slaughter (n = 11/14) stages, most (n = 6/7) persisting in chicken meat batches. Colistin-resistant K. pneumoniae rates were low (4%-n = 1/24 positive samples), while most samples carried MDR strains (67%-n = 16/24) and copper-tolerant isolates (63%-n = 15/24, with sil and pco gene clusters; MICCuSO4 ≥ 16 mM), particularly at pre-slaughter. Benzalkonium chloride consistently exhibited activity against K. pneumoniae (MIC/MBC range = 4-64 mg/L) from representative strains independently of the presence or absence of genes linked to QACs tolerance. A polyclonal K. pneumoniae population, discriminated by FT-IR and WGS, included various lineages dispersed throughout the chicken's lifecycle at the farm (ST29-KL124, ST11-KL106, ST15-KL19, ST1228-KL38), until the meat (ST1-KL19, ST11-KL111, ST6405-KL109, and ST6406-CG147-KL111), or over years (ST631-49 KL109, ST6651-KL107, ST6406-CG147-KL111). Notably, some lineages were identical to those from human clinical isolates. WGS also revealed F-type multireplicon plasmids carrying sil + pco (copper) co-located with qacEΔ1 ± qacF (QACs) and antibiotic resistance genes like those disseminated in humans. In conclusion, chicken farms and their derived meat are significant reservoirs for diverse K. pneumoniae clones enriched in antibiotic resistance and metal tolerance genes, some exhibiting genetic similarities with human clinical strains. Further research is imperative to unravel the factors influencing K. pneumoniae persistence and dissemination within poultry production, contributing to improved food safety risk management. This study underscores the significance of understanding the interplay between antimicrobial control strategies and non-clinical sources to effectively address the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

From Farm to Fork: Persistence of Clinically Relevant Multidrug-Resistant and Copper-Tolerant Klebsiella pneumoniae Long after Colistin Withdrawal in Poultry Production.

Concerns about colistin-resistant bacteria in animal food-environmental-human ecosystems prompted the poultry sector to implement colistin restrictions and explore alternative trace metals/copper feed supplementation. The impact of these strategies on the selection and persistence of colistin-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in the whole poultry production chain needs clarification. We assessed colistin-resistant and copper-tolerant K. pneumoniae occurrence in chickens raised with inorganic and organic copper formulas from 1-day-old chicks to meat (7 farms from 2019 to 2020), after long-term colistin withdrawal (>2 years). Clonal diversity and K. pneumoniae adaptive features were characterized by cultural, molecular, and whole-genome-sequencing (WGS) approaches. Most chicken flocks (75%) carried K. pneumoniae at early and preslaughter stages, with a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in meat batches (17%) and sporadic water/feed contamination. High rates (>50%) of colistin-resistant/mcr-negative K. pneumoniae were observed among fecal samples, independently of feed. Most samples carried multidrug-resistant (90%) and copper-tolerant (81%; silA and pcoD positive and with a MICCuSO4 of ≥16 mM) isolates. WGS revealed accumulation of colistin resistance-associated mutations and F type multireplicon plasmids carrying antibiotic resistance and metal/copper tolerance genes. The K. pneumoniae population was polyclonal, with various lineages dispersed throughout poultry production. ST15-KL19, ST15-KL146, and ST392-KL27 and IncF plasmids were similar to those from global human clinical isolates, suggesting chicken production as a reservoir/source of clinically relevant K. pneumoniae lineages and genes with potential risk to humans through food and/or environmental exposure. Despite the limited mcr spread due to the long-term colistin ban, this action was ineffective in controlling colistin-resistant/mcr-negative K. pneumoniae, regardless of feed. This study provides crucial insights into the persistence of clinically relevant K. pneumoniae in the poultry production chain and highlights the need for continued surveillance and proactive food safety actions within a One Health perspective. IMPORTANCE The spread of bacteria resistant to last-resort antibiotics such as colistin throughout the food chain is a serious concern for public health. The poultry sector has responded by restricting colistin use and exploring alternative trace metals/copper feed supplements. However, it is unclear how and to which extent these changes impact the selection and persistence of clinically relevant Klebsiella pneumoniae throughout the poultry chain. We found a high occurrence of copper-tolerant and colistin-resistant/mcr-negative K. pneumoniae in chicken flocks, regardless of inorganic and organic copper formulas use and a long-term colistin ban. Despite the high K. pneumoniae isolate diversity, the occurrence of identical lineages and plasmids across samples and/or clinical isolates suggests poultry as a potential source of human K. pneumoniae exposure. This study highlights the need for continued surveillance and proactive farm-to-fork actions to mitigate the risks to public health, relevant for stakeholders involved in the food industry and policymakers tasked with regulating food safety.

Molecular characterization of multidrug-resistant avian pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from poultry and poultry products

Overall occurrence of Escherichia coli in the current study was 7.55% and corresponding group wise occurrence was 13%, 2.66%, 10% and 7% in a faecal and cloacal samples, environmental samples, Retailer’s shop’s samples, and restaurant samples respectively. Amongst the different type of samples processed, highest recovery was from samples collected at poultry farms (13%) followed by Retailer’s shop (10%) suggesting heavy infection and contamination occurring at the initial points of poultry chain. In this study, four isolates failed to exhibit pathogenic potential of E. coli by using in - vitro pathogenic assays viz. Congo red dye binding assay and haemolysis by using 5% sheep blood agar, also turned out to be negative on virulent marker based PCR, suggesting proficient efficacy of targeted genes viz. ecp and uidA for precise and time saving determination of pathogenic potential of E. coli isolates. Besides, one isolate recovered from raw chicken meat sample showed resistance against all 15 antibiotics and other two isolates recovered from litter samples showed resistance against 14 antibiotics suggesting development of multi-drug resistance in common food pathogens, against the most widely used and effective drug of choices in animal as well as human medicine.

The Slaughterhouse as Hotspot of CC1 and CC6 Listeria monocytogenes Strains with Hypervirulent Profiles in an Integrated Poultry Chain of Italy.

In Europe, very few studies are available regarding the diversity of Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) clonal complexes (CCs) and sequence types (ST) in poultry and on the related typing of isolates using whole genome sequencing (WGS). In this study, we used a WGS approach to type 122 L. monocytogenes strains isolated from chicken neck skin samples collected in two different slaughterhouses of an integrated Italian poultry company. The studied strains were classified into five CCs: CC1-ST1 (21.3%), CC6-ST6 (22.9%), CC9-ST9 (44.2%), CC121-ST121 (10.6%) and CC193-ST193 (0.8%). CC1 and CC6 strains presented a virulence gene profile composed of 60 virulence genes and including the Listeria Pathogenicity Island 3, aut_IVb, gltA and gltB. According to cgMLST and SNPs analysis, long-term persistent clusters belonging to CC1 and CC6 were found in one of the two slaughterhouses. The reasons mediating the persistence of these CCs (up to 20 months) remain to be elucidated, and may involve the presence and the expression of stress response and environmental adaptation genes including heavy metals resistance genes (cadAC, arsBC, CsoR-copA-copZ), multidrug efflux pumps (mrpABCEF, EmrB, mepA, bmrA, bmr3, norm), cold-shock tolerance (cspD) and biofilm-formation determinants (lmo0673, lmo2504, luxS, recO). These findings indicated a serious risk of poultry finished products contamination with hypervirulent L. monocytogenes clones and raised concern for the consumer health. In addition to the AMR genes norB, mprF, lin and fosX, ubiquitous in L. monocytogenes strains, we also identified parC for quinolones, msrA for macrolides and tetA for tetracyclines. Although the phenotypical expression of these AMR genes was not tested, none of them is known to confer resistance to the primary antibiotics used to treat listeriosis The obtained results increase the data on the L. monocytogenes clones circulating in Italy and in particular in the poultry chain.

Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of antibiotic resistance of Salmonella Heidelberg in the south of Brazil

Salmonella is the main human pathogen present in the poultry chain. Salmonella Heidelberg is one of the most important serovars for public health since it has been frequently isolated in broiler chickens from different countries and may present multidrug resistance (MDR). This study was carried out with 130 S. Heidelberg isolates collected from pre-slaughter broiler farms in 2019 and 2020 in 18 cities from three Brazilian states to study relevant aspects regarding their genotypic and phenotypic resistance. The isolates were tested and identified using somatic and flagellar antiserum (0:4, H:2, and H:r), and an antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) was performed against 11 antibiotics for veterinary use. The strains were typed by Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC)-PCR, and representatives of the main clusters of the identified profiles were sequenced by Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS). AST results showed that all isolates were resistant to sulfonamide, 54 % (70/130) were resistant to amoxicillin, and only one was sensitive to tetracycline. Twelve isolates (15.4 %) were MDR. The dendrogram obtained from the ERIC-PCR showed that the strains were grouped into 27 clusters with similarity above 90 %, with some isolates showing 100 % similarity but with different phenotypic profiles of antimicrobial resistance. Identical strains collected on the same farm on other dates were identified, indicating that they were residents. WGS identified 66 antibiotic-resistance genes. The sul2 (present in all sequenced samples) and tet(A) genes were highlighted and validated in the experimental analysis. The fosA7 gene was also identified in all sequenced samples, but resistance was not observed in the phenotypic test, possibly due to the heteroresistance of the S. Heidelberg strains evaluated. Considering that chicken meat is one of the most consumed meats in the world, the data obtained in the present study can corroborate the mapping of the origin and trends of antimicrobial resistance.

Diagnosis of the Sustainability of a Poultry Value Chain From the Perspective of Environmental Management Accounting

Purpose: This paper aims to present the diagnosis of the sustainability of a poultry value chain from the perspective of Environmental Management Accounting. Theoretical framework: The main theoretical basis for the development of the research was the perspective of the Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) system that contributes to the generation of value. This chain will be studied under EMA and thus overcome the barrier for the implementation of an EMA system. When the organization succeeds in implementing it and making it an integral part of the environmental strategy, the EMA provides an efficient approach to environmental, managerial and financial information. Method/design/approach: The methodology used was the case study, the investigation, of an exploratory and quali-quantitative nature. Descriptive and quantitative information about environmental heritage was analysed, such as forest diagnosis, waste generation, water resources, energy and emissions, environmental management and accounting in the various links of the poultry production chain in the state of Goiás. Results and conclusion: The results demonstrate the vertical business strategy and the adoption of a circular business model by the poultry chain. It was possible to confirm that Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) makes it possible to map processes, identify physical and financial aspects, establish ecological control mechanisms, and highlight actions, policies and sustainability programs at the production chain level. It is concluded that to diagnose information of a descriptive and quantitative nature, from the EMA perspective, the level of planning of the integrating company and integrated farms must be considered, which directly impacts the monitoring and continuous evaluation of processes. When applied, the EMA contributes to the knowledge of the performance of the chain. Research implications: The contribution of this study is based on two pillars: i) the methodology applied with data collection from primary sources; and, ii) access to data, which allowed results, until then, not observed in the literature. Originality/value: The contribution of the study lies in the fact that it is a study applied to the production chain, with access to primary and unpublished data, which advances the development and applicability of science in the area and/or practices of socio-environmental management of organizations.

Antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of silver nanoparticles against Salmonella Enteritidis.

Salmonella enterica serotype Enteritidis is one of the main pathogens associated with foodborne illnesses worldwide. Biofilm formation plays a significant role in the persistence of pathogens in food production environments. Owing to an increase in antimicrobial resistance, there is a growing need to identify alternative methods to control pathogenic microorganisms in poultry environments. Thus, this study aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and evaluate their antibiofilm activity against poultry-origin Salmonella Enteritidis in comparison to a chemical disinfectant. AgNPs were synthesized, characterized, and tested for their minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration, and antibiofilm activity against S. Enteritidis strains on polyethylene surfaces. The synthesized AgNPs, dispersed in a liquid medium, were spherical in shape with a mean diameter of 6.2nm. AgNPs exhibited concentration-dependent bactericidal action. The bacterial reduction was significantly higher with AgNPs (3.91 log10 CFU [Formula: see text] cm-2) than that with sanitizer (2.57 log10 CFU∙cm-2). Regarding the time of contact, the bacterial count after a contact time of 30min was significantly lower than that after 10min. The AgNPs exhibited antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity for the removal of biofilms produced by S. Enteritidis, demonstrating its potential as an alternative antimicrobial agent. The bactericidal mechanisms of AgNPs are complex; hence, the risk of bacterial resistance is minimal, making nanoparticles a potential alternative for microbial control in the poultry chain.

Influence of laying hen-systems and ecologic variables on mites of medical and veterinary importance

The search for improvements in the poultry production chain and for increased egg productivity have grown significantly. However, intensive production with or by using of confinement systems negatively affect the welfare of animals and is favoring the appearance of harmful ectoparasites in production. Due to differences in the existing management systems, (e.g. Californian and cage-free systems) and given the importance of the poultry industry in the international market, the aim of the present study was: (1) to compare mite community between SIG (Intensive system – cage: Californian) and SIF (Intensive system – free: cage free); (2) egg-laying systems to analyze how the abundances of the ectoparasites Dermanyssus gallinae, Megninia ginlgymura, and Ornithonyssus sylviarum are affected by these egg-laying models; (3) to evaluate the association between the functional diversity found in traps, organic matter, and feathers in both systems; and finally, (4) to analyze how abiotic factors (e.g. humidity, temperature at sampling) affect mite community composition inside each model. A total of 860,571 mites were sampled, belonging to 59 taxa from six functional groups. Mite composition in the SIF system was different from the SIG system, while their variations in dispersion homogeneity were quite similar to each other. Although taxonomic composition is different between them, they are quite similar when clustered according to functional diversity. The variables 'humidity' and 'temperature' were not determining factors for the appearance of species. The species that most contributed for distinguishing the models were: M. ginlgymura, Dermatophagoides farinae, D. gallinae, Tyrophagus putrescentiae, O. sylviarum, Blattisocius keegani, Glycyphagus sp., Acotyledon sp., and Cheyletus malaccensis, respectively. Dermanyssus gallinae was strongly associated with the Californian model. Two taxa were highly correlated with cloaca, neck, dorsum, and inner wings; variations in relative air humidity also affected M. ginlgymura and O. sylviarum populations. Organic matter had a high abundance of predatory mites with potential for controlling mites of sanitary importance in the poultry chain.

Salmonella spp. in non-edible animal products intended for the preparation of feed (meal) for industrial poultry feed

Non-edible by-products of animal origin are slaughter waste from slaughter animals that after processing give rise to animal meal which in turn is used as ingredients in the preparation of animal feed such as farm animals. Although this practice has its advantages in reducing environmental impact and meeting the nutritional needs of animals, it can serve as a vehicle for microorganisms such as Salmonella spp. Since food can play an important role in the dissemination of pathogens in the poultry production chain through feeding, the objective of the present study was to investigate the presence of Salmonella spp. samples of non-edible flours of animal origin used in the formulation of feed and also of feed produced from these by-products in slaughterhouses received from Bahia and Pernambuco states, Brazil and that are used in the industrial poultry farms of these States. Out of 649 samples of animal origin flours and feed were analyzed, of which 110 (16.9%) presented Salmonella spp. Statistical analysis, through descriptive analysis and Pearson’s chi-squase association test (X2) showed an association between the presence of Salmonella spp. and the different types of inedible foods analyzed (p&lt;0.05).This contamination in the analyzed samples indicates failure in the microbiological control during and/or after processing of animal origin flours, making them the sources of pathogen dissemination in the poultry chain.

Aflatoxin B1 in the egg chain: monitoring with specific indirect competitive ELISA in northern Paraná, Brazil

An indirect competitive immunoassay (ic-ELISA) was developed using monoclonal antibody produced by hybridoma AF4, which showed high specificity and reactivity with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and aflatoxicol, but low cross-reactivity to other analogs. This low cost reliable method was applied for AFB1 monitoring in the poultry chain of a high agribusiness potential region (northern Paraná state, Brazil). Maize, laying hens feed and egg samples were collected from two poultry farms (with production above 200,000 eggs/day) and evaluated by intralaboratory validated ic-ELISA. The sensitivity of such a validated assay, detecting picogram levels of aflatoxins, demonstrated to be proper for surveying daily ingested cumulative toxins and estimating risks. Additionally, more than 61.00% of positive egg samples ranged between the limit of quantification (LOQ – 0.035 ng/g) and 1.00 ng/g, values commonly not covered by commercial kits. Positive data (&gt;LOQ) occurred in 22 maize (56.40%), 34 feed (85.00%) and 192 (48.00%) egg samples. Mean contamination in maize was 1.51±0.94 ng/g (range 0.11-3.91 ng/g), 1.26±0.96 ng/g in feed (0.10-3.58 ng/g), and 1.01±0.77 ng/g in egg (0.05-3.85 ng/g). No statistical difference was observed between farms (P&gt;0.05) for any of the matrices analysed. However, the difference between median values in maize (0.98 ng/g – Farm A; 1.76 ng/g – Farm B) indicated a higher contamination trend in farm B, possibly due to inadequate local storage. Although there is no limit stipulated for AFB1 contamination in eggs, the levels detected in samples were low and do not represent an immediate risk to animal production or human consumption. Nevertheless, the high frequency of positive maize and feed samples in this field of agribusiness should be highlighted. Sensitive aflatoxin monitoring procedures must be strategically carried out from raw materials to animal derived products, aiming harmless production, which also assures human health.

Multidrug-Resistant and Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase–Producing Salmonella enterica Serotype Heidelberg Is Widespread in a Poultry Processing Facility in Southern Brazil

This study was conducted to characterize the distribution of Salmonella isolates in a poultry processing facility and to identify their antibiotic resistance profiles. Salmonella enterica was detected in 146 samples (66.7%), and 125 isolates were identified as Salmonella Heidelberg (n = 123), Salmonella Abony (n = 1), and Salmonella O:4,5 (n = 1). Salmonella Heidelberg isolates were subjected to XbaI macrorestriction analysis and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The 66 pulsotypes obtained were grouped into four major clusters, indicating cross-contamination and persistence of this serotype in the processing facility. Selected S. enterica isolates were characterized by their antibiotic resistance, and most (n = 122, 97.6%) were multidrug resistant. Resistance to third-generation cephalosporins ceftazidime (84 isolates, 67.2%) and cefotaxime and ceftriaxone (91 isolates, 72.8%) was particularly prevalent. Production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) was identified in 24 isolates (19.2%), and ESBL-producing isolates were resistant to at least eight antibiotics. This study revealed the high prevalence of Salmonella Heidelberg in the poultry chain, providing insight into the ecology of this pathogen in this facility. The high prevalence of multidrug-resistant S. enterica is a concern due to the potential consequences for public health.

Antimicrobial Resistance and Genetic Diversity of Campylobacter spp. Isolated from Broiler Chicken at Three Levels of the Poultry Production Chain in Costa Rica

Campylobacter spp. are considered the most common bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis, one of the four main causes of diarrheal disease worldwide, and they are one of the main foodborne pathogens causing hospitalizations and deaths. Here, 148 strains of Campylobacter spp. isolated from poultry at farms, processing plants, and retail stores in Costa Rica were examined for resistance to six antibiotics. An agar dilution test was used to determine the MIC and susceptibility profiles against doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, nalidixic acid, enrofloxacin, chloramphenicol, and erythromycin. In addition, a pulsed-field gel electrophoresis analysis was carried out to determine the genotype relatedness of a representative subset of the isolates. Approximately 136 (92%) of the 148 analyzed isolates showed resistance to the tested drugs. Nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin, and enrofloxacin were the antibiotics for which resistance occurred most frequently (91.2, 85.8, and 85.8%, respectively), followed by doxycycline (25.0%), chloramphenicol (5.4%), and erythromycin (2.7%). The profile conferring only resistance to quinolones was the most frequently found, and only 2.0% of the isolates showed resistance to quinolones and macrolides simultaneously. Results showed a high frequency of resistant Campylobacter spp. strains and evidenced the distribution, selection, and circulation of resistant strains along the poultry chain from farms to consumers. Cross-contamination and resistance seem to play important roles in the dissemination of these strains at specific points of the poultry chain, even when control measures are being taken. The establishment of effective surveillance and control strategies represents an essential tool for foodborne diseases mitigation. The rational use of antibiotics, especially those still showing efficacy, should be a priority in both human and veterinary medicine to contain the progress of this phenomenon and its consequences.

Antimicrobial activity of poultry hatch baskets containing copper inserts

Commercial poultry hatcheries provide ideal conditions for the multiplication and spread of microorganisms. Formaldehyde is widely used as a disinfectant; however, it is harmful to human health and can cause abnormal morphology in chicks. An alternative microbiological control is the use of copper, a metallic antimicrobial agent for contact surfaces. The antimicrobial efficacy of copper surfaces has been established in healthcare environments. However, its use in the poultry chain is still limited. This study aimed to compare the antimicrobial activity of common polypropylene hatch baskets with hatch baskets composed of copper (polypropylene hatch baskets covered by copper hatch baskets; polypropylene hatch baskets with solid copper plates on the bottom; polypropylene hatch baskets covered by copper hatch baskets and with solid copper plates on the bottom). To simulate a hatching environment with high contamination, the eggs and hatching cabinet were not fumigated. Microbiological analysis of the hatching cabinet environmental, surface of hatch basket, and fluff were performed. The results indicated that the absence of bottom holes resulted in a higher volume of organic matter that interfered with the copper's antimicrobial activity. The presence of copper in the hatch baskets did not decrease microbial contamination under the conditions evaluated, confirming that the metal should only be used as a complement to standard hygiene and not as a substitute for surface disinfectants. Further analysis will evaluate the antimicrobial activity of hatch baskets composed only of copper and the ability of nanoparticles to remove the biofilms formed by bacteria isolated from the poultry environment.

Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Salmonella Isolated from Broiler Farms at the Tolima Region-Colombia.

Simple SummarySalmonella spp. is a major foodborne pathogen with a worldwide distribution that is responsible for salmonellosis in animals and humans. Salmonella contamination of poultry and derivative products occurs at different levels. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of Salmonella in broilers farms and to conduct a phenotypic and molecular characterization of Salmonella isolates. The prevalence at the broiler farm level was 26.67%, and all isolates were found to belong to the serovar Salmonella Paratyphi B. These results suggest a common source of Salmonella contamination between broiler farms, presumably via feed, parent flocks or hatchery machines. Salmonella Paratyphi B is present in different segments of the poultry chain in the Tolima region. Additional studies are needed to identify the main source of Salmonella in broilers, chicken carcasses, and eggs commercialized in the Tolima region.Salmonella is an important animal and human pathogen responsible for Salmonellosis, and it is frequently associated with the consumption of contaminated poultry products. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of Salmonella in the poultry farms and to determine the genetic relationship. A total of 135 samples collected from fifteen broiler farms, including cloacal, feed, water, environmental and farm operator faeces samples were subjected to microbiological isolation. Molecular confirmation of Salmonella isolates was carried out by amplification of the invA gene, discrimination of d-tartrate-fermenting Salmonella isolates using multiplex PCR, and subsequently analysed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). A survey questionnaire was conducted to identify potential risk factors for Salmonella presence in broiler farms. The prevalence of Salmonella at the farm level was 26.67%, and Salmonella isolates were serotyped as S. Paratyphi B and all isolates were d-tartrate-fermenting (dT+). PFGE showed three highly similar clusters and one significantly different Salmonella isolate. S. Paratyphi B continued to be present in different links of the poultry chain in the Tolima region, and identification of its main source is necessary to control its dissemination.

Antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella from poultry meat in Brazil: results of a nationwide survey

Abstract The use of antimicrobials in food-producing animals can lead to increased bacterial resistance. Important information to address this problem can be provided by monitoring antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in foodborne pathogens. As part of preliminary activities for the implementation of AMR surveillance in Brazil, a nationwide survey on AMR in Salmonella enterica isolates from poultry meat was conducted. The survey evaluated 146 Salmonella isolates from poultry meat in 2014, and 163 isolates obtained in 2017. Minimal inhibitory concentrations of 13 antimicrobials were determined by broth microdilution, and isolates were assigned to serotypes by automated ribotyping. High resistance rates were found in 2014 and 2017, in particular to nalidixic acid (84/146, 57.5% and 141/163, 86.5%, respectively), ampicillin (82/146, 56.2% and 125/163, 76.7%), cefotaxime (76/146, 52.1% and 124/163, 76.1%), ceftazidime (73/146, 50.0% and 124/163, 76.1%), ciprofloxacin (83/146, 56.9% and 145/163, 89.0%) and tetracycline (88/146, 60.3% and 135/163, 82.8%). There was a significant increase in resistance to these antibiotics in the second survey period. Salmonella ser. Heidelberg and Salmonella ser. Minnesota were the main serotypes expressing resistance to these antimicrobials. Multidrug resistance was found in 50.7% (74/146) of the isolates from 2014, and in 77.3% (126/163) of isolates from 2017 (P &lt; 0.05). None of the isolates was resistant to azithromycin or meropenem. These findings indicate high and increasing rates of resistance among Salmonella from poultry meat in Brazil, mainly associated with Salmonella ser. Heidelberg and Salmonella ser. Minnesota, stressing the importance of continuous monitoring of AMR in the poultry chain.

Perfil dos produtores e consumidores de carne de frango caipira na região do Alto São Francisco – MG

A produção e o consumo de carne de frango tem crescido muito durante os últimos anos. Com isso os consumidores e os produtores de frango passaram a se preocupar mais com cada processo produtivo da cadeia avícola, visando assim um produto final de boa qualidade. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar o perfil dos produtores e consumidores de frangos tipo caipira da Região do Alto São Francisco – MG. A pesquisa foi realizada no município de Bambuí – MG, situado no centro oeste mineiro. Participaram do questionário 60 bambuienses abordados em diferentes supermercados da cidade, feiras-livres, e nas próprias residências, onde foram utilizados questionários já pré-definidos. A análise dos dados foi realizada com o auxílio de planilhas eletrônicas, sendo utilizado o Microsoft Office Excel® 2007. Os consumidores de carne de frango caipira estão interessados em saber a origem do produto, bem como a garantia de um produto saudável, com preço acessível, e de qualidade. O sabor do frango caipira ainda é o fator determinante pra quem procura esse tipo de alimento. Pode-se observar com a pesquisa que a produção de frango caipira é uma atividade com grande potencial de venda, mas ainda carece de ferramentas relacionadas a melhoria do processo produtivo, que impulsionem os criadores a trabalharem com mais qualidade. A produção de qualquer produto de origem animal precisa cada vez se adequar as normas de bem-estar, uma realidade que poucos produtores conhecem.

Integrated planning decisions in the broiler chicken supply chain

AbstractIn the poultry industry, the meat market requires a careful coordination of the broiler chicken supply chain comprising breeders, hatcheries, farms, slaughterhouses, wholesale, and retail vendors. Aside from the inherent challenges of coordinating a supply chain, animal husbandry systems face additional complex tasks. The lack of integrated decisions within the poultry chain could lead to a production plan that (a) does not comply with the biosecurity standards required in meat production for human consumption at the farms; (b) violates the production and inventory capacities at the slaughterhouses; and (c) does not meet the demand of customers. To streamline the supply chain, we propose a mixed‐integer linear programming model that supports production planning and scheduling decisions in broiler chicken production facilities. In addition, we embedded the mixed‐integer programming model in a rolling‐horizon scheme to improve scalability and to avoid the myopic effect of time‐indexed optimization models that put too much emphasis on a specific time period. We present the results of a case study in a poultry company in Santa Marta (Colombia), where we reach profit improvements that range from 7% to 57% with a reduction in inventory costs that range from 30% to 60%, while simultaneously meeting stringent technical, tactical, and biosecurity constraints.

Target setting in data envelopment analysis: efficiency improvement models with predefined inputs/outputs

In managerial decisions, situations frequently arise when decision makers need to define their capabilities, desires, and limitations when trying to improve efficiency. In this paper, target setting models that accommodate predefined desired output targets or predefined available inputs during efficiency improvement in data envelopment analysis are proposed. The proposed approach guarantees efficient targets when inefficient or weak efficient units’ desire expansion or reduction in outputs/inputs, and cases of input/output redistribution, or nondiscretionary variables in a production system. The approach is applied to two empirical studies, first, on a poultry chain trying to improve efficiency of some branches, and second on water, energy, land and food nexus trying to attain future sustainability based on preexisting inputs. Results of the empirical studies supports the proposed models.