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Factors contributing to the survival of poultry associated Pseudomonas spp. exposed to a quaternary ammonium compound
1MATFORSK, Norwegian Food Research Institute, As, Norway.
Abstract:
Resistance to benzalkonium chloride (BC) among Pseudomonas spp. isolated from poultry carcasses was determined and strategies for elimination of resistant strains evaluated. This investigation showed that resistance was quite common, about 30% of the isolates being able to grow in 200 micrograms ml-1 BC. Pseudomonas fluorescens strains were generally less susceptible than strains of Ps. lundensis and Ps. fragi. An overnight incubation in medium containing 200 micrograms ml-1 BC was sufficient to reduce the susceptibility of two Pseudomonas strains to the lethal effect of BC significantly. Adding EDTA enhanced the lethal effect of BC, but the effect was reduced after growing cells in medium containing BC and EDTA. Growth in medium with a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) rendered the cells more susceptible to chlorine, phenolics, and alkylaminoacetate. These results indicate that alternating use of QACs with these compounds can be used to avoid build-up of resistant strains. In addition, increased temperatures improved the lethal effect of BC and should be considered when planning disinfection routines.
Insights
Benzalkonium chloride (BC) resistance is common in poultry Pseudomonas. Alternating disinfectants and increasing temperature can help eliminate resistant strains.
Area of Science:
- Food safety
- Microbiology
- Antimicrobial resistance
Background:
- Benzalkonium chloride (BC) is a widely used disinfectant.
- Pseudomonas spp. are common contaminants on poultry carcasses.
- Antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens is a significant public health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of BC resistance in Pseudomonas spp. from poultry.
- To evaluate strategies for eliminating BC-resistant strains.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and identification of Pseudomonas spp. from poultry carcasses.
- Determination of BC resistance levels (minimum inhibitory concentration).
- Evaluation of disinfection strategies including incubation with BC, EDTA, and alternating disinfectants.
Main Results:
- Approximately 30% of Pseudomonas isolates exhibited resistance to BC (200 µg/mL).
- Pseudomonas fluorescens strains were generally less susceptible than Ps. lundensis and Ps. fragi.
- Pre-incubation with BC reduced susceptibility, while EDTA enhanced BC's lethal effect.
- Growth in quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) medium increased susceptibility to other disinfectants (chlorine, phenolics).
- Increased temperatures enhanced the lethal effect of BC.
Conclusions:
- Benzalkonium chloride resistance is prevalent in poultry-associated Pseudomonas.
- Alternating QACs with other disinfectants can prevent resistance.
- Optimizing temperature is crucial for effective BC disinfection routines.
- Strategies for managing BC resistance are essential for poultry processing hygiene.