Campylobacter spp. Prevalence and Levels in Raw Milk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Food safety
• Microbiology
• Public health

Background:

• Campylobacteriosis is a significant global gastrointestinal illness.
• Raw milk consumption is a known risk factor for campylobacteriosis.
• Limited data exists on Campylobacter prevalence and levels in raw milk, hindering risk assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the prevalence and levels of zoonotic Campylobacter species in raw milk.
• To assess data from cows, goats, and sheep across Canada, the US, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.
• Inclusion of studies reporting Campylobacter prevalence and/or levels in raw milk.
• Data extraction on country, animal species, sample source, and Campylobacter species.
• Statistical analysis using Stata v. 12 (Metaprop command).

Main Results:

• The weighted mean prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in raw milk was 1.18%.
• Highest prevalence observed in the UK (6.4%), from cows (1.3%), inline filters (1.75%), and non-pathogenic species studies (1.14%).
• Limited data on Campylobacter levels: 0.16 ± 0.3 and ~0.047 MPN/ml reported in two studies.

Conclusions:

• Raw milk consumption poses inherent risks due to potential pathogen presence.
• The findings support the continuation of regulations limiting raw milk sales.
• Further research on Campylobacter levels in raw milk is warranted for comprehensive risk assessment.