Meta-Analysis on Foodborne Pathogens in Animal-Derived Foodstuffs in Maghreb Countries.
Amir Nahal1, Sofiane Tamendjari2,3
1Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Chadli Bendjedid University, El-Tarf, Algeria.
Foodborne Pathogens and Disease
|June 29, 2026
Summary
Foodborne pathogens are prevalent in animal products across the Maghreb region, with raw poultry showing the highest contamination. Enhanced surveillance is crucial for public health and food safety.
Area of Science:
- Food Safety
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Animal-derived foods are vital for nutrition but can transmit foodborne illnesses.
- Limited data on foodborne pathogens exists in Maghreb countries (Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia).
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the prevalence of foodborne pathogens in animal-derived foods in the Maghreb region.
- To establish a comprehensive understanding of the food safety landscape from 2004 to 2025.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search in PubMed and Scopus databases following PRISMA guidelines.
- Meta-analysis of 80 studies using a random-effects model in R software.
- Analysis of pooled prevalence and heterogeneity (I²).
Main Results:
- Overall pooled prevalence of foodborne pathogens was 26.6%, with high heterogeneity (I² = 98.9%).
- Raw poultry meat exhibited the highest contamination rate (36.1%).
- Key pathogens identified include *Salmonella* spp. (14.2%), *Staphylococcus aureus* (28.3%), and *Escherichia coli* (36%).
Conclusions:
- A significant burden of foodborne pathogens exists in animal-derived foods within the Maghreb region.
- Targeted surveillance and control strategies are necessary to mitigate risks and enhance food safety.
- Findings underscore the need for improved public health measures in the region.
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