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The moroccan food snail, Helix aspersa, as a source of Salmonella
Abstract:
A total of 270 samples, nine lots of 30 samples each, of imported Moroccan food snails was examined for the presence of Salmonella. Eighty-four samples (an overall incidence of 31.11%) and all nine lots contained Salmonella. No significant difference (P greater than 0.25) in the number of positive samples was observed by using either selenite cystine both or tetrathionate broth when the samples had been pre-enriched in lactose broth. When used as direct selective enrichments with samples not pre-enriched in lactose broth, tetrathionate broth was significantly (P less than 0.05) more productive than selenite cystine broth. The overall detection of Salmonella-positive samples by direct enrichment was significantly greater (P less than 0.001) than by pre-enrichment. A variety of uncommon serotypes occurrence and incidence, and the concomitant human health potential, of Salmonella in one species of live, imported food snails.
Insights
Imported Moroccan food snails frequently harbor Salmonella, with 31.11% of samples testing positive. Direct enrichment methods, particularly tetrathionate broth, proved more effective for detecting Salmonella in these food products.
Area of Science:
- Food safety microbiology
- Zoonotic disease surveillance
- Public health microbiology
Background:
- Imported food snails are a potential vehicle for transmitting foodborne pathogens.
- Salmonella contamination in food products poses a significant public health risk.
- Understanding pathogen prevalence in novel food sources is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Salmonella in imported Moroccan food snails.
- To compare the efficacy of different selective enrichment broths for Salmonella detection.
- To identify potential public health risks associated with Salmonella in these snails.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 270 imported Moroccan food snail samples from nine lots.
- Comparative evaluation of selenite cystine broth and tetrathionate broth.
- Assessment of pre-enrichment in lactose broth versus direct selective enrichment.
- Statistical analysis to determine significant differences in detection rates.
Main Results:
- Overall Salmonella incidence was 31.11%, with all nine lots contaminated.
- Tetrathionate broth was significantly more productive than selenite cystine broth for direct enrichment (P < 0.05).
- Direct enrichment significantly outperformed pre-enrichment for Salmonella detection (P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Imported Moroccan food snails represent a significant reservoir for Salmonella.
- Direct enrichment, especially with tetrathionate broth, is recommended for efficient Salmonella detection.
- The presence of diverse Salmonella serotypes highlights potential zoonotic risks and the need for stringent food safety measures.