Molecular tracking, through processing, of Campylobacter strains colonizing broiler flocks

Area of Science:

• Food Safety
• Microbiology
• Poultry Science

Background:

• Campylobacter colonization is prevalent in UK poultry flocks.
• Poultry processing often leads to carcass contamination.
• Understanding contamination sources is crucial for food safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To track Campylobacter strains during poultry processing.
• To differentiate between flock-derived and environmental contamination.
• To assess the impact of processing on Campylobacter levels.

Main Methods:

• Molecular oligonucleotide probe method used to track specific Campylobacter strains.
• Sampling at multiple stages of poultry processing (postbleed, postpluck, prechill, postchill).
• flaA gene sequencing and strain-specific probe synthesis for identification.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in Campylobacter post-bleed compared to post-pluck.
• No further reduction observed pre- and post-chill.
• Flock-specific strains predominated in positive flocks.
• Abattoir environment played a role in contaminating negative flocks processed after positive ones.

Conclusions:

• Flock colonization is the primary source of contamination in well-colonized flocks.
• Abattoir environment is a significant source for negative flocks following positive ones.
• Effective decontamination strategies are needed to mitigate cross-contamination.