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Contamination of food products with Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis: a systematic review
M M Eltholth1, V R Marsh, S Van Winden
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK. meltholth@rvc.ac.uk
Abstract:
Although a causal link between Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) and Crohn's disease has not been proved, previous studies suggest that the potential routes of human exposure to MAP should be investigated. We conducted a systematic review of literature concerning the likelihood of contamination of food products with MAP and the likely changes in the quantity of MAP in dairy and meat products along their respective production chains. Relevant data were extracted from 65 research papers and synthesized qualitatively. Although estimates of the prevalence of Johne's disease are scarce, particularly for non-dairy herds, the available data suggest that the likelihood of contamination of raw milk with MAP in most studied regions is substantial. The presence of MAP in raw and pasteurized milk has been the subject of several studies which show that pasteurized milk is not always MAP-free and that the effectiveness of pasteurization in inactivating MAP depends on the initial concentration of the agent in raw milk. The most recent studies indicated that beef can be contaminated with MAP via dissemination of the pathogen in the tissues of infected animals. Currently available data suggests that the likelihood of dairy and meat products being contaminated with MAP on retail sale should not be ignored.
Insights
Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) can contaminate raw milk and meat products, posing a potential risk. Pasteurization may not eliminate MAP, and contaminated products are a concern at retail sale.
Area of Science:
- Food safety
- Microbiology
- Veterinary epidemiology
Background:
- A potential link between Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) and Crohn's disease necessitates investigating human exposure routes.
- Previous research indicates MAP contamination in food products requires further examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize existing literature on MAP contamination in food products.
- To assess the prevalence and changes in MAP quantity within dairy and meat production chains.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of 65 research papers.
- Qualitative synthesis of extracted data on MAP contamination.
- Analysis of MAP presence in raw and pasteurized milk and meat products.
Main Results:
- Substantial likelihood of raw milk contamination with MAP in studied regions.
- Pasteurized milk is not consistently MAP-free; inactivation effectiveness varies with initial MAP concentration.
- Beef contamination with MAP is possible through infected animal tissues.
- Significant risk of MAP contamination in dairy and meat products at retail.
Conclusions:
- Human exposure to MAP through contaminated dairy and meat products is a plausible concern.
- Current food production and processing may not fully mitigate MAP contamination risks.
- Further investigation into MAP's role in foodborne illness and its control is warranted.
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