Salmonella organisms in garden fertilizers of animal origin

Of 120 specimens of garden fertilizers of animal origin purchased in retail shops, 40 (33.3%) were found to be contaminated with salmonella organisms. Untreated bone meal (53.1%) was the most heavily contaminated but 25% of specimens of this product classed as heat-treated or sterilized were positive. In all, 32 serotypes were identified.