Purpose: To determine the concentrations, serotypes, and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Salmonella on raw poultry in China, Colombia, Guatemala, Russia and Vietnam to increase the knowledge on how to protect the global food supply and enhance food safety data collection and risk assessment at the local level
Methods: Whole chicken carcasses (n = 300/country) were collected from retail establishments (large, small, and wet markets), over a wide geographical range in these countries. Salmonella concentration was assessed using MPN method (according to USDA-FSIS). Salmonella serotypes were determined using the Kauffmann-White scheme, and disk diffusion or broth microdilution methods were used for antimicrobial susceptibility testing (up to 15 antimicrobials).
Results: The prevalence and concentration (mean log MPN/carcass) of Salmonella in China, Colombia, Guatemala, Russia and Vietnam were (43%, 0.74), (37%, 0.78), (45%, 1.1), (51%, 1.2), and (49%, 0.98), respectively. Most frequently detected serotypes were S. Enteritidis (18.7%) in China, S. Paratyphi B (44.7%) in Colombia, and S. Infantis (72%) in Russia. Multi-drug resistant (≥ 2 drugs) Salmonella were detected in 89% (n = 671) of isolates in China, 79% (n = 378) in Colombia, 74% (n = 73) in Guatemala, and 94% (n = 153) in Russia. Data collection is still ongoing in Guatemala, Russia, and Vietnam.
Significance: Although Salmonella concentrations do not appear to be high compared to USDA-FSIS 2008 data (mean log MPN = 1.8), the Salmonella prevalence in these countries was high. These data will be helpful to identify common and unique Salmonella serotypes on raw chicken meat in relation to public health. In addition, multi-drug resistant isolates may pose a significant public health risk.