Zoonotic bacterial pathogens and mixed crop-livestock farming

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Food Safety
• Veterinary Medicine

Background:

• Mixed crop-livestock farms (MCLFs) are traditional, significant for organic food production.
• Outdoor animal rearing in organic MCLFs increases exposure to disease vectors.
• Organic regulations restrict chemical and antibiotic use, necessitating alternative pathogen control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define complex transmission routes of zoonotic pathogens in organic MCLFs.
• To determine the prevalence of potential zoonotic pathogens in food animals and crops.
• To identify effective interruption strategies for zoonotic pathogens within MCLF systems.

Main Methods:

• Investigating pathogen transmission pathways within integrated crop and livestock systems.
• Assessing the prevalence of zoonotic agents in farm animals and agricultural produce.
• Evaluating biosecurity and management practices for pathogen control.

Main Results:

• Detailed mapping of zoonotic pathogen movement between animals, crops, and the environment.
• Quantification of pathogen presence in specific farm components.
• Identification of critical control points for reducing zoonotic risks.

Conclusions:

• Understanding transmission dynamics is crucial for managing zoonotic risks in organic MCLFs.
• Integrated strategies are needed to ensure food safety in these complex farming systems.
• Alternative, organic-compliant methods are essential for effective pathogen control.