Prevalence of Salmonella spp. in Ground Beef Sold in Bogotá, Colombia

Introduction: Salmonella is frequently involved in diarrheal disease throughout the world and is disseminated mainly by food, polluted waters or infected food-handlers. In Colombia, the serotypes of Salmonella and their prevalence in ground beef have not been characterized. Reliable detection of foodborne pathogens is critical for the protection of consumers, and new developments in rapid methods deliver higher efficiency and faster results.  The 3M™ Molecular Detection Assay Salmonella method uses a combination of isothermal amplification and bioluminescence to rapidly detect Salmonella in enriched food, feed and environmental samples with high sensitivity and specificity.

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of Salmonella spp., in ground beef commercialized in different points of sale around Bogota, Colombia.

Methods: A total of 180 samples of ground beef were taken from 18 points of sale. 90 were obtained from two markets and 90 were obtained from two retail stores. Samples were analyzed by the 3M Molecular Detection Assay Salmonella. Results were also confirmed biochemically. Moreover, a survey was applied to determined hygienic conditions at the establishments from which samples were taken.

Results: 11.1 % of Salmonella spp., prevalence was found. Based on the establishment type, statistically significant differences between bacteria isolated from market and those isolated from supermarkets were established.

Significance: Greatest deficiencies on standard execution compliance were found at markets. The following risk factors resulting in product contamination were observed: lack of sanitary design in the establishments, inadequate food-handlers practices, contact with vectors, mostly insects, lack of control strategies like an adequate cold storage and handling. As consequence of good sanitary execution standards compliance at retail stores points of sale, prevalence of Salmonella spp. has been reduced. Use of rapid detection methods, such as the 3M™ Molecular Detection System, is a key component in a pathogen monitoring program to maintain compliance.