Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in free-range, organic pigs in Italy using serological and molecular methods

Twenty-one free ranging pigs from three organically managed farms in northern Italy were examined for Toxoplasma gondii infection status by meat juice serology. DNA was extracted from all 21 animals and analysed for T. gondii by multilocus nested PCR-RFLP. Results showed a 95.2% prevalence in serology, while PCR was positive in 57.1% of infected pigs. Genotyping of amplified loci for Type I, Type II and Type I/II patterns, suggests the presence of more than one clonal genotype in circulation in these animals. Results of the present study highlight the high exposure to T. gondii in organic pig farms in Italy, indicating a potential risk for meat consumption.