Bacillus velezensis CL197: a zearalenone detoxifying strain isolated from wheat with potential to be used in animal production.

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium species, and cause contamination of food and feed, with impacts in animal production and in food production chain. Effective detoxifying methods, such as biodegradation, are therefore required. This study aimed to isolate microorganisms and screen ZEA detoxifying strains. As a result, 197 microorganisms were isolated, and six were initially selected after colorimetric screening. ZEA (1 µg/mL) was added to culture media, and after 24 h, all six microorganisms were able to degrade ZEA, without the formation of α-ZOL. One isolate eliminated ~ 99% of ZEA and was identified as Bacillus velezensis CL197. ZEA metabolites produced by the bacteria were evaluated, and no metabolites with greater or similar toxicity than ZEA were detected. This strain was applied to swine in vitro digestion, and up to 64% of ZEA was degraded. B. velezensis CL197 significantly degraded ZEA, demonstrating potential to be used as a detoxifying agent in the food production chain as a biocontrol agent.

Environmental and Anthropogenic Influences on Coliform Concentrations in the Octopus insularis Production Chain in the Veracruz Reef System, Gulf of Mexico.

Coliforms are relatively common in aquatic environments, but their concentrations can be increased by environmental changes and anthropogenic activities, thus impacting fisheries resources. To determine the microbiological quality in the octopus production chain (capture, post-capture, processing and commercialization), total (TC) and fecal (FC) coliforms were quantified in sea water, fresh octopus, fresh water, ice and octopus in two presentations: packed in ice and boiled. Samples came from fishing zones Enmedio, Chopa and La Gallega at the Veracruz Reef System (VRS) during dry, rainy and windy seasons. The coliforms were determined using the most probable number technique (MPN). The most relevant results indicated that octopus packed in ice coming from the commercialization stage had FC levels >540 MPN/100 g, which exceeded the permissible limits (230 MPN/100 g). Therefore, these products present a risk for human consumption. Differences in FC were observed in octopuses between the three fishing zones (H = 8.697; p = 0.0129) and among the three climatic seasons, increasing during the rainy season, highlighting La Gallega with 203.33 ± 63 MPN (H = 7.200; p = 0.0273). The results provide evidence of the environmental and anthropogenic influences on coliform concentrations and the urgent need to implement an efficient cold chain throughout octopus production stages with adequate handling practices to reverse this situation.

Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of antibiotic resistance of Salmonella Heidelberg in the south of Brazil.

Salmonella is the main human pathogen present in the poultry chain. Salmonella Heidelberg is one of the most important serovars for public health since it has been frequently isolated in broiler chickens from different countries and may present multidrug resistance (MDR). This study was carried out with 130 S. Heidelberg isolates collected from pre-slaughter broiler farms in 2019 and 2020 in 18 cities from three Brazilian states to study relevant aspects regarding their genotypic and phenotypic resistance. The isolates were tested and identified using somatic and flagellar antiserum (0:4, H:2, and H:r), and an antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) was performed against 11 antibiotics for veterinary use. The strains were typed by Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC)-PCR, and representatives of the main clusters of the identified profiles were sequenced by Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS). AST results showed that all isolates were resistant to sulfonamide, 54 % (70/130) were resistant to amoxicillin, and only one was sensitive to tetracycline. Twelve isolates (15.4 %) were MDR. The dendrogram obtained from the ERIC-PCR showed that the strains were grouped into 27 clusters with similarity above 90 %, with some isolates showing 100 % similarity but with different phenotypic profiles of antimicrobial resistance. Identical strains collected on the same farm on other dates were identified, indicating that they were residents. WGS identified 66 antibiotic-resistance genes. The sul2 (present in all sequenced samples) and tet(A) genes were highlighted and validated in the experimental analysis. The fosA7 gene was also identified in all sequenced samples, but resistance was not observed in the phenotypic test, possibly due to the heteroresistance of the S. Heidelberg strains evaluated. Considering that chicken meat is one of the most consumed meats in the world, the data obtained in the present study can corroborate the mapping of the origin and trends of antimicrobial resistance.

Sex and animal behavior on yield and bruises in different beef cuts / Sexo e comportamento animal no rendimento e contusões em diferentes cortes de carcaça de bovinos

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of behavioral differences in cattle on bruising on different cuts and on carcass yield. A total of 4,061 lots of cattle were evaluated, which corresponded to 199,026 carcasses. Animal temperament was classified as calm, anxious, or excited. The following carcass cuts were evaluated: round, rump, shin, thin flank, tenderloin, and rib. Of the total number of slaughtered animals, 68.26% had at least one type of bruise with complete removal of the affected tissue. There was an interaction effect between sex and temperament on the occurrence of bruises on the different cuts and on carcass yield. In castrated males, bruises on the round, rump, shin, and tenderloin cuts did not differ between temperament classes, but the excited males showed more bruises on the thin flank and rib cuts. Among the females, for all cuts, the number of bruises was higher (P<0.05) in those with excited temperament than in the anxious and calm animals, which did not differ (P>0.05). Additionally, carcass yield relative to plant weight decreased (P<0.05), with the calm females exhibiting the highest values, followed by those with anxious and excited temperament. In the castrated males, however, although performance declined, those with anxious and excited temperament did not differ (P>0.05). Females and more reactive animals have more bruises on their carcass.(AU)

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar os efeitos das diferenças comportamentais dos bovinos e seus reflexos nas contusões nos diferentes cortes e nos valores de rendimento de carcaça. Foram avaliados 4.061 lotes de bovinos, perfazendo 199.026 mil carcaças. O temperamento animal foi classificado em calmo, ansioso e excitado. Foram avaliados os cortes das carcaças divididas em coxa, alcatra, dianteiro e lombo, vazio e costela. Do total de lotes de animais abatidos, 68,26% apresentaram pelo menos um tipo de contusão com remoção completa do tecido afetado. Ocorreu interação entre o sexo e temperamento animal para os diferentes cortes na ocorrência de contusões e no rendimento de carcaça. Nos machos castrados as contusões dos cortes da coxa, alcatra, dianteiro e lombo não diferiram entre as classes de temperamento, tendo os animais agressivos mais contusões nos cortes do vazio e costela. Nas fêmeas em todos os cortes, as quantidades de contusões verificadas foram superiores (P<0,05) para animais com comportamento excitado do que animais ansiosos e calmos, não ocorrendo diferença entre os mesmos (P>0,05). O rendimento de carcaça em relação do peso de frigorífico quanto as classes comportamentais, nas fêmeas foi decrescente (P<0,05) com maiores valores para animais calmos, seguidos dos animais ansiosos e com menores rendimentos para animais com temperamento excitado, enquanto nos machos castrados, embora o rendimento tenha sido decrescente, animais com temperamento ansioso e excitado não diferiram (P>0,05). Carcaças oriundas de fêmeas e de animais com maior reatividade apresentam mais lesões.(AU)

Phylogenetic analyses of Salmonella detected along the broiler production chain in Trinidad and Tobago.

This study was conducted to determine the phylogenies of Salmonella strains isolated from cross-sectional studies conducted at hatcheries, broiler farms, processing plants, and retail outlets (broiler production chain) in Trinidad and Tobago over 4 yr (2016-2019). Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was used to characterize Salmonella isolates. Core genome phylogenies of 8 serovars of public health significance were analyzed for similarities in origin and relatedness. In addition, Salmonella strains isolated from human salmonellosis cases in Trinidad were analyzed for their relatedness to the isolates detected along the broiler production chain. The common source of these isolates of diverse serovars within farms, within processing plants, between processing plants and retail outlets, and among farm-processing plant-retail outlet continuum was well-supported (bootstrap value >70%) by the core genome phylogenies for the respective serovars. Also, genome analyses revealed clustering of Salmonella serovars of regional (intra-Caribbean) and international (extra-Caribbean) origin. Similarly, strains of S. Enteritidis and S. Infantis isolated from human clinical salmonellosis in 2019 from Trinidad and Tobago clustered with our processing plant isolates recovered in 2018. This study is the first phylogenetic analysis of Salmonella isolates using WGS from the broiler industry in the Caribbean region. The use of WGS confirmed the genetic relatedness and transmission of Salmonella serovars contaminating chickens in broiler processing, and retailing in the country, with zoonotic and food safety implications for humans.

Molecular Characterization of Salmonella Detected along the Broiler Production Chain in Trinidad and Tobago.

This cross-sectional study determined the serovars, antimicrobial resistance genes, and virulence factors of Salmonella isolated from hatcheries, broiler farms, processing plants, and retail outlets in Trinidad and Tobago. Salmonella in silico serotyping detected 23 different serovars where Kentucky 20.5% (30/146), Javiana 19.2% (28/146), Infantis 13.7% (20/146), and Albany 8.9% (13/146) were the predominant serovars. There was a 76.0% (111/146) agreement between serotyping results using traditional conventional methods and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in in silico analysis. In silico identification of antimicrobial resistance genes conferring resistance to aminoglycosides, cephalosporins, peptides, sulfonamides, and antiseptics were detected. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was detected in 6.8% (10/146) of the isolates of which 100% originated from broiler farms. Overall, virulence factors associated with secretion systems and fimbrial adherence determinants accounted for 69.3% (3091/4463), and 29.2% (1302/4463) counts, respectively. Ten of 20 isolates of serovar Infantis (50.0%) showed MDR and contained the blaCTX-M-65 gene. This is the first molecular characterization of Salmonella isolates detected along the entire broiler production continuum in the Caribbean region using WGS. The availability of these genomes will help future source tracking during epidemiological investigations associated with Salmonella foodborne outbreaks in the region and worldwide.

Investigating the dynamics of Salmonella contamination in integrated poultry companies using a whole genome sequencing approach.

The study of non-typhoid Salmonella in broiler integrations has been limited by the resolution of typing techniques. Although serotyping of Salmonella isolates is used as a traditional approach, it is not of enough resolution to clearly understand the dynamics of this pathogen within poultry companies. The aim of this research was to investigate the epidemiology and population dynamics of Salmonella serotypes in 2 poultry integrations using a whole genome sequencing approach. Two hundred and forty-three Salmonella isolates recovered from the broiler production chain of 2 integrated poultry companies were whole genome sequenced and analyzed with dedicated databases and bioinformatic software. The analyses of sequences revealed that S. Infantis was the most frequent serotype (82.3%). Most isolates showed a potential for resistance against medically important antibiotics and disinfectants. Furthermore, 97.5% of isolates harbored the pESI-like mega plasmid, that plays an important role in the global dissemination of AMR. SNP tree analysis showed that there were clones that are niche-specific while other ones were distributed throughout the broiler production chains. In this study, we demonstrated the potential of whole genome sequencing analysis for a comprehensive understanding of Salmonella distribution in integrated poultry companies. Data obtained with these techniques allow determination of the presence of genetic factors that play an important role in the environmental fitness and pathogenicity of Salmonella.

Detection of Enteric Viruses and Core Microbiome Analysis in Artisanal Colonial Salami-Type Dry-Fermented Sausages from Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Microbial fermentation plays an important role in the manufacturing of artisanal sausages and can have major effects on product quality and safety. We used metagenomics and culture-dependent methods to study the presence of Hepatitis E virus (HEV) and Rotavirus-A (RV-A), and fungal and bacterial communities, in artisanal Colonial salami-type dry-fermented sausages in Santa Catarina state, Brazil. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeast dominated the microbiome. Latilactobacillus sakei and Debaryomyces hansenii were ubiquitous and the most abundant species. The DNA of some foodborne pathogens was found in very low concentrations although viable cells of most of these species were undetectable by cultivation methods. The characteristics of the raw material and hygiene of the artisanal sausage manufacturing process resulted in high loads of beneficial microorganisms and the absence of HEV and RV-A viruses as determined by RT-qPCR assays. In conclusion, high LAB load in sausages was more relevant to preventing pathogen growth than the ripening time and/or physicochemical characteristics. However, the presence of Clostridium spp. and other pathogens in some samples must be taken into account for the development of future preservation methods; appropriate LAB starter cultures and health surveillance are required in the production process to prevent foodborne outbreaks.

Potentially Pathogenic Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli in Lamb Meat.

Extended-spectrum cephalosporin (ESC) resistance remains a threat since ESC are important antimicrobials used to treat infections in humans and animals. Escherichia coli is an important source of ESC-resistance genes, such as those encoding extended-spectrum ß-lactamases (ESBLs). E. coli is a common commensal of lambs. Reports that contaminated food can be a source of ESC-resistant bacteria in humans and that ESBL-producing E. coli are found in sheep in Brazil led us to survey their presence in retail lamb meat. Twenty-five samples intended for human consumption were screened for ESC-resistant E. coli, and the isolates were characterized. IncI1-blaCTX-M-8 and IncHI2-blaCTX-M-2 were the main plasmids responsible for ESC resistance. The plasmids harbored common ESBL genes in Enterobacteriaceae from food-producing animals in Brazil. IncI1-blaCTX-M-14 and IncF-blaCTX-M-55 plasmids, associated with human infections, were also detected. Few CTX-M-producing E. coli have been clustered by typing methods, and some may be genetically pathogenic. The findings indicate the presence of diverse strains of E. coli, harboring important ESBL genes, in lamb meat in Brazil. Surveillance of ESC-resistant bacteria could reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance through the food chain.

Diagnóstico da produção de morangos no oeste catarinense -Safra 2020 / Diagnosis of strawberry production in western Santa Catarina State -2020 crop cycle

Atividades agrícolas alternativas, comoa cultura do morango, têm despertado o interesse de agricultores no Oeste Catarinense (região sul). O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um diagnóstico da produção comercial de morangos na safra 2020 desta região, possibilitando o planejamento de ações de assistência técnica no cultivo e de desenvolvimento da cadeia produtiva. As informações foram coletadas através de questionários aplicados aos extensionistas rurais da Epagri (Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária e Extensão Rural de Santa Catarina) responsáveis pelos municípios pertencentes à Unidade de Gestão Técnica 1 (UGT 1 -Oeste Catarinense), englobando 36 municípios. Os dados foram sistematizados, a fim de definir os parâmetros: número de produtores e de plantas por município; número de plantas porcultivar; porcentagem de plantas de “primeiro ciclo” ou com “dois ou mais ciclos”; número e percentual de produtores quanto a: i) origem das mudas utilizadas; ii) recebimento de assistência técnica; iii) sistema de produção; iv) sistema de cultivo; v) rastreabilidade da produção; e vi) valor e forma de comercialização. De acordo com os dados coletados, verificou-se que o Oeste Catarinense possui 68 produtores, que estão presentes em 67% dos municípios e cultivam 358.565 plantas. As cultivares Albion e San Andreas são as mais utilizadas. A maior parte dos cultivos é convencional (70,6%), com uso do sistema semi-hidropônico em bancadas e túnel alto (60,3%). A comercialização in naturae direta ao consumidor é feita por grande parte dos produtores, com valor médio de comercialização deR$ 19,81/kg (3.70 US$). Estas características devem ser levadas em consideração para o planejamento do desenvolvimento da cadeia produtiva na região.(AU)

Alternative agricultural activities, such as the strawberry crop, have attracted the interest of some farmers in western Santa Catarina (southern Brazil). The objective of this workwas to carry out a diagnosis of the commercial production of strawberries of this region in the 2020 harvest cycle, enabling the planning of technical assistance actions in the cultivation and development of the production chain. Data were collected throughspecific questionnaires applied to Epagri (Agricultural Research and Extension Company of the State of Santa Catarina) rural extensionists responsible for the municipalities belonging to Technical Management Unit 1 (UGT 1 -Western Santa Catarina), which encompasses 36 municipalities. Data were systematized according to the following parameters: number of producers and plants per municipality; number of plants per cultivar; percentage of “first cycle” or “two or more cycles” plants; number and percentageof farmers that: i) adopted the same origin of the seedlings used; ii) received or not some technical assistance; iii) have a proper production system; iv) adopted a proper cultivation system; v) have a production traceability; and vi) adopted commercialvalue and form of commercialization. Results show that the Western administrative region of the Santa Catarina state has 68 strawberry producers, and they are present in 67% of the municipalities and cultivating 358.565 plants. The cultivars Albion and SanAndreas are being the most one used. Most cultivated areas are conventional (70,6%), and use the semi-hydroponic system in benches and high tunnels (60,3%). Sales in natura and directly to the consumer are carried out by most growers, with an average sales value of R$ 19,81/kg offruit (3.70 USD).Theseoutcomes must be taken into account when planning the development of the production chain in the selected region(AU)

Diagnóstico da produção de morangos no oeste catarinense -Safra 2020 / Diagnosis of strawberry production in western Santa Catarina State -2020 crop cycle

Atividades agrícolas alternativas, comoa cultura do morango, têm despertado o interesse de agricultores no Oeste Catarinense (região sul). O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um diagnóstico da produção comercial de morangos na safra 2020 desta região, possibilitando o planejamento de ações de assistência técnica no cultivo e de desenvolvimento da cadeia produtiva. As informações foram coletadas através de questionários aplicados aos extensionistas rurais da Epagri (Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária e Extensão Rural de Santa Catarina) responsáveis pelos municípios pertencentes à Unidade de Gestão Técnica 1 (UGT 1 -Oeste Catarinense), englobando 36 municípios. Os dados foram sistematizados, a fim de definir os parâmetros: número de produtores e de plantas por município; número de plantas porcultivar; porcentagem de plantas de “primeiro ciclo” ou com “dois ou mais ciclos”; número e percentual de produtores quanto a: i) origem das mudas utilizadas; ii) recebimento de assistência técnica; iii) sistema de produção; iv) sistema de cultivo; v) rastreabilidade da produção; e vi) valor e forma de comercialização. De acordo com os dados coletados, verificou-se que o Oeste Catarinense possui 68 produtores, que estão presentes em 67% dos municípios e cultivam 358.565 plantas. As cultivares Albion e San Andreas são as mais utilizadas. A maior parte dos cultivos é convencional (70,6%), com uso do sistema semi-hidropônico em bancadas e túnel alto (60,3%). A comercialização in naturae direta ao consumidor é feita por grande parte dos produtores, com valor médio de comercialização deR$ 19,81/kg (3.70 US$). Estas características devem ser levadas em consideração para o planejamento do desenvolvimento da cadeia produtiva na região.

Alternative agricultural activities, such as the strawberry crop, have attracted the interest of some farmers in western Santa Catarina (southern Brazil). The objective of this workwas to carry out a diagnosis of the commercial production of strawberries of this region in the 2020 harvest cycle, enabling the planning of technical assistance actions in the cultivation and development of the production chain. Data were collected throughspecific questionnaires applied to Epagri (Agricultural Research and Extension Company of the State of Santa Catarina) rural extensionists responsible for the municipalities belonging to Technical Management Unit 1 (UGT 1 -Western Santa Catarina), which encompasses 36 municipalities. Data were systematized according to the following parameters: number of producers and plants per municipality; number of plants per cultivar; percentage of “first cycle” or “two or more cycles” plants; number and percentageof farmers that: i) adopted the same origin of the seedlings used; ii) received or not some technical assistance; iii) have a proper production system; iv) adopted a proper cultivation system; v) have a production traceability; and vi) adopted commercialvalue and form of commercialization. Results show that the Western administrative region of the Santa Catarina state has 68 strawberry producers, and they are present in 67% of the municipalities and cultivating 358.565 plants. The cultivars Albion and SanAndreas are being the most one used. Most cultivated areas are conventional (70,6%), and use the semi-hydroponic system in benches and high tunnels (60,3%). Sales in natura and directly to the consumer are carried out by most growers, with an average sales value of R$ 19,81/kg offruit (3.70 USD).Theseoutcomes must be taken into account when planning the development of the production chain in the selected region

Análisis de políticas de transferencia de tecnología en la cadena productiva del café en Antioquia / Analysis of technology transfer policies in the coffee production chain in Antioquia / Análise de políticas de transferência de tecnologia na cadeia produtiva de café em Antioquia

Resumen Introducción: se analizan las políticas de transferencia de tecnología de la cadena productiva del café mediante simulaciones realizadas por medio de los escenarios de: modo I technology push, modo II Market Pull, modo III Sistémico y el modo IV combinación de modos. Objetivo: analizar las políticas que favorezcan los procesos de transferencia de tecnología en la cadena productiva del café en Antioquia a partir de un modelo de Simulación Basado en Agentes. Materiales y métodos: tras la revisión bibliográfica realizada en fuentes primarias y segundarias se caracterizó la cadena y se clasificaron las políticas que a lo largo de la historia se han implementado a favor de ésta. Resultados: esta clasificación sirvió de insumo junto con el instrumento aplicado a los 256 agentes representativos de la cadena para definir los parámetros del Modelo de simulación Basado en Agentes. Cabe resaltar que al Modelo se le realizó una validación conceptual mediante dos técnicas: el método histórico del racionalismo y la aproximación histórica amigable, y una validación operacional. Conclusiones: después de aplicar varias técnicas de validación y verificación, se encontró que el modelo ayuda al entendimiento del fenómeno de la transferencia de tecnología en la cadena productiva del café, la cual es comprendida como un Sistema de Innovación de carácter localizado. El análisis de las políticas permite recomendar los modos de políticas que permiten la participación de un mayor número de agentes en el proceso de transferencia de tecnología obteniendo un sistema con mayor distribución de las oportunidades de mercado.

Abstract Introduction: the technology transfer policies of the coffee production chain are analyzed through simulations carried out using the following scenarios: I technology push mode, II Market Pull mode, Systemic III mode and IV mode combination modes. Objective: analyze the policies that favor technology transfer processes in the coffee production chain in Antioquia based on an agent-based simulation model. Materials and methods: after the literature review carried out in primary and secondary sources, the chain was characterized and the policies that throughout history have been implemented in favor of it. Results: this classification served as input together with the instrument applied to the 256 representative agents of the chain to define the parameters of the Agent-Based Simulation Model. It should be noted that the Model was given a conceptual validation through two techniques: the historical method of rationalism and the friendly historical approach, and an operational validation. Conclusion: after applying several validation and verification techniques, it was found that the model helps to understand the phenomenon of technology transfer in the coffee production chain, which is understood as a localized Innovation System. Policy analysis makes it possible to recommend policy modes that allow more actors to participate in the technology transfer process by obtaining a system with greater distribution of market opportunities.

Resumo Introdução: analisam-se as políticas de transferência de tecnologia da cadeia produtiva do café mediante simulações realizadas por meio dos cenários de: modo I technology push, modo II Market Pull, modo III Sistêmico e o modo IV combinação de modos. Objectivo: analisar as políticas que favoreçam os processos de transferência de tecnologia na cadeia produtiva do café em Antioquia a partir de um modelo de Simulação Baseado em Agentes. Materiais e métodos: após da revisão bibliográfica realizada em fontes primárias e secundarias caracterizou-se a cadeia e classificaram-se as políticas que ao longo da história se implementaram a favor desta. Resultado: esta classificação serviu de insumo junto com o instrumento aplicado aos 256 agentes representativos da cadeia para definir os parâmetros do Modelo de simulação Baseado em Agentes. Cabe ressaltar que ao Modelo realizou-se uma validação conceitual mediante duas técnicas: o método histórico do racionalismo e a aproximação histórica amigável, e uma validação operacional. Conclusão: Depois de aplicar várias técnicas de validação e verificação, descobriu-se que o modelo ajuda a compreender o fenômeno da transferência de tecnologia na cadeia produtiva do café, que é compreendida como um Sistema de Inovação de caráter localizado. A análise das políticas permite recomendar os modos de políticas que permitem a participação de um maior número de agentes no processo de transferência de tecnologia obtendo um sistema com maior distribuição das oportunidades do mercado.

Listeria monocytogenes From Farm to Fork in a Brazilian Pork Production Chain.

ABSTRACT: Listeria monocytogenes contamination was assessed in different steps of a pork production chain. Ten lots of pigs were sampled at termination barns, at slaughter (after bleeding, after buckling, after evisceration, and after final washing), at processing (knives, deboning tables, and employees' hands), and of end products (ribs, shoulder, ham, and sausage). All samples (n = 670) were subjected to L. monocytogenes detection, and the obtained isolates (n = 18, identified as Listeria spp.) were characterized by their biochemical characteristics, serogroups, virulence genes, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis profiles, antibiotic resistances (ampicillin, penicillin, gentamicin, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim), and adhesion abilities. The results revealed the low occurrence of Listeria spp. in the evaluated pork production chain. However, four tested sausage samples (40%) were positive for Listeria spp., with L. monocytogenes identified in two (20%) of these samples. Ten isolates were identified as L. monocytogenes (eight from serogroup 1/2a or 3a and two from serogroup 4b, 4d, or 4e): all isolates were also positive for the virulence-related genes hlyA, iap, plcA, actA, inlA, inlB, inlC, and inlJ and susceptible to the tested antibiotics. One sausage sample was contaminated by both serogroups 1/2a or 3a and 4b, 4d, or 4e. Isolates from serogroup 1/2a or 3a obtained during visits 5 and 6 presented distinct genetic profiles by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, indicating that contamination may come from different sources. The adhesion potential exhibited by Listeria spp. isolates (n = 18) ranged from weak (serogroup 4b, 4d, or 4e) to moderate (L. innocua and L. monocytogenes serogroup 1/2a or 3a). Despite the low occurrence of L. monocytogenes, pathogenic serogroups were detected in sausages, demanding control measures by the industry.

Prevalence, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Diversity of Salmonella along the Pig Production Chain in Southern Brazil.

Control of Salmonella spp. in food production chains is very important to ensure safe foods and minimize the risks of foodborne disease occurrence. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and main contamination sources of Salmonella spp. in a pig production chain in southern Brazil. Six lots of piglets produced at different farms were tracked until their slaughter, and samples were subjected to Salmonella spp. detection. The obtained isolates were serotyped, subjected to antimicrobial resistance testing, and pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Salmonella spp. was detected in 160 (10.2%) samples, and not detected in pig carcasses after final washing or chilling. Among the 210 Salmonella spp. isolates, S. Typhimurium was the most prevalent (n = 101) and resistant to at least one antimicrobial. High resistance rates were detected against tetracycline (83.8%), chloramphenicol (54.3%), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (33.3%). The isolates that were non-susceptible to three or more classes of antimicrobials (n = 60) were considered multidrug-resistant (MDR), and isolates resistant to up to six of the tested antimicrobials were found. PFGE allowed the identification of genetic diversity and demonstrated that farm environment and feed supply may be sources for the dissemination of Salmonella spp. along the production chain. The results revealed the sources of Salmonella contamination in the pig production chain and highlighted the risks of antimicrobial resistance spread.

Detection and Characterization of Salmonella Serotypes in the Production Chain of Two Pig Farms in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina.

The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of Salmonella in the pork production chain and to characterize Salmonella isolates. From 764 samples, 35 (4.6%) were positive for Salmonella spp., as determined by biochemical tests and the presence of the invA gene. From these, 2.6, 2.0, 8.8, and 8.0% corresponded to samples collected from farms, slaughterhouses, boning rooms and retail markets, respectively. Salmonella strains were classified into five serotypes and distributed as follows: S. Typhimurium in the pork production chain, S. Kentucky in farms and slaughterhouses, S. Brandenburg in slaughterhouses, S. Livingstone in farms and S. Agona in boning rooms and retail markets. Interestingly, the antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated that all 35 Salmonella spp.-positive isolates were resistant to at least one antimicrobial agent, and 30 were multidrug-resistant (MDR) and resistant to different classes of antibiotics. The enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-polymerase chain reaction (ERIC-PCR) analysis showed clonal relatedness among strains isolated from farms, boning rooms and retail markets. The presence of antibiotic-resistant Salmonella in food poses a potential health hazard to consumers.

Omics approaches in fish quality and safety / Procedimentos ômicos aplicados em qualidade e segurança de pescado

Omics is a new technology that uses genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to investigate metabolites from foods. The global demand for fish has shown a progressive increase because it is a significant source of high quality protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially omega-3, and essential minerals. However, there are barriers in the fishery production chain such as lack of standardization, knowledge, and technology transfer to industry. Moreover, fish effective monitoring is difficult due to restricted quality parameters and analytical methods determined by current Brazilian legislation. This review details the limiting chemical parameters and recent advances in analytical procedures for fish quality determination. To improve fish quality monitoring, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), trimethylamine (TMA), ammonia, pH, and biogenic amines values should be revised and established by fish category and/or type of fish product. On the other hand, protein carbonyl concentration, free fatty acids (FFAs), peroxide values (POV), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) should be included in the national legislation. Simultaneously, the official authorities should take into account effective, practical, and low cost analytical methodologies, which lead to faster results in order to facilitate and enhance the quality control of the products from the fish production chain, ensuring the consumer's health. Moreover, analytical techniques for the identification of fish species must be introduced in the Brazilian legislation in order to avoid illegal substitutions and negative impacts to consumers.(AU)

Os procedimentos ômicos são uma nova tecnologia que utiliza a genômica, proteômica e metabolômica para avaliar metabólitos dos alimentos. A demanda mundial de pescado tem aumentado progressivamente devido à elevada qualidade de proteínas, minerais e ácidos graxos poli-insaturados, especialmente ômega-3. Todavia, a cadeia produtiva aquícola apresenta limitações como falta de padronização, ausência de conhecimento e transferência de tecnologia para as indústrias. Além disso, torna-se difícil garantir um monitoramento efetivo do pescado em decorrência das limitações dos parâmetros de qualidade atuais e dos métodos analíticos estabelecidos pela legislação nacional. O presente trabalho analisa os fatores limitantes relacionados aos parâmetros químicos, bem como os avanços recentes nos procedimentos analíticos, para determinação da qualidade do pescado. Levando-se em consideração a melhoria no controle de qualidade dessa matriz, os parâmetros de bases voláteis totais (BVT), trimetilamina (TMA), amônia, pH e aminas biogênicas deveriam ser revisados e estabelecidos por categorias de pescado e/ou por tipo de produto à base de pescado. Em contrapartida, parâmetros relacionados à concentração de carbonilas, ácidos graxos livres (AGLs), índice de peróxidos (IP) e malonaldeído (MDA) poderiam ser inseridos na legislação nacional. Simultaneamente, as autoridades oficiais devem levar em consideração metodologias analíticas que apresentem efetividade, praticidade, baixo custo e rapidez, facilitando e aprimorando o controle de qualidade de produtos de pescado e garantindo a saúde dos consumidores. Além disso, técnicas analíticas para identificação das espécies de peixes devem ser incluídas na legislação brasileira visando evitar substituições ilegais e impactos negativos aos consumidores.(AU)

Omics approaches in fish quality and safety / Procedimentos ômicos aplicados em qualidade e segurança de pescado

Omics is a new technology that uses genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to investigate metabolites from foods. The global demand for fish has shown a progressive increase because it is a significant source of high quality protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially omega-3, and essential minerals. However, there are barriers in the fishery production chain such as lack of standardization, knowledge, and technology transfer to industry. Moreover, fish effective monitoring is difficult due to restricted quality parameters and analytical methods determined by current Brazilian legislation. This review details the limiting chemical parameters and recent advances in analytical procedures for fish quality determination. To improve fish quality monitoring, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), trimethylamine (TMA), ammonia, pH, and biogenic amines values should be revised and established by fish category and/or type of fish product. On the other hand, protein carbonyl concentration, free fatty acids (FFAs), peroxide values (POV), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) should be included in the national legislation. Simultaneously, the official authorities should take into account effective, practical, and low cost analytical methodologies, which lead to faster results in order to facilitate and enhance the quality control of the products from the fish production chain, ensuring the consumer's health. Moreover, analytical techniques for the identification of fish species must be introduced in the Brazilian legislation in order to avoid illegal substitutions and negative impacts to consumers.(AU)

Os procedimentos ômicos são uma nova tecnologia que utiliza a genômica, proteômica e metabolômica para avaliar metabólitos dos alimentos. A demanda mundial de pescado tem aumentado progressivamente devido à elevada qualidade de proteínas, minerais e ácidos graxos poli-insaturados, especialmente ômega-3. Todavia, a cadeia produtiva aquícola apresenta limitações como falta de padronização, ausência de conhecimento e transferência de tecnologia para as indústrias. Além disso, torna-se difícil garantir um monitoramento efetivo do pescado em decorrência das limitações dos parâmetros de qualidade atuais e dos métodos analíticos estabelecidos pela legislação nacional. O presente trabalho analisa os fatores limitantes relacionados aos parâmetros químicos, bem como os avanços recentes nos procedimentos analíticos, para determinação da qualidade do pescado. Levando-se em consideração a melhoria no controle de qualidade dessa matriz, os parâmetros de bases voláteis totais (BVT), trimetilamina (TMA), amônia, pH e aminas biogênicas deveriam ser revisados e estabelecidos por categorias de pescado e/ou por tipo de produto à base de pescado. Em contrapartida, parâmetros relacionados à concentração de carbonilas, ácidos graxos livres (AGLs), índice de peróxidos (IP) e malonaldeído (MDA) poderiam ser inseridos na legislação nacional. Simultaneamente, as autoridades oficiais devem levar em consideração metodologias analíticas que apresentem efetividade, praticidade, baixo custo e rapidez, facilitando e aprimorando o controle de qualidade de produtos de pescado e garantindo a saúde dos consumidores. Além disso, técnicas analíticas para identificação das espécies de peixes devem ser incluídas na legislação brasileira visando evitar substituições ilegais e impactos negativos aos consumidores.(AU)

From Farm to Table: Follow-Up of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Throughout the Pork Production Chain in Argentina.

Pigs are important reservoirs of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC). The entrance of these strains into the food chain implies a risk to consumers because of the severity of hemolytic uremic syndrome. This study reports the prevalence and characterization of STEC throughout the pork production chain. From 764 samples, 31 (4.05%) were stx positive by PCR screening. At farms, 2.86% of samples were stx positive; at slaughter, 4.08% of carcasses were stx positive and at boning rooms, 6% of samples were stx positive. These percentages decreased in pork meat ready for sale at sales markets (4.59%). From positive samples, 50 isolates could be characterized. At farms 37.5% of the isolates carried stx1/stx2 genes, 37.5% possessed stx2e and 25%, carried only stx2. At slaughter we detected 50% of isolates positive for stx2, 33% for stx2e, and 16% for stx1/stx2. At boning rooms 59% of the isolates carried stx1/stx2, 14% stx2e, and 5% stx1/stx2/stx2e. At retail markets 66% of isolates were positive for stx2, 17% stx2e, and 17% stx1/stx2. For the other virulence factors, ehxA and saa were not detected and eae gene was detected in 12% of the isolates. Concerning putative adhesins, agn43 was detected in 72%, ehaA in 26%, aida in 8%, and iha in 6% of isolates. The strains were typed into 14 E. coli O groups (O1, O2, O8, O15, O20, O35, O69, O78, O91, O121, O138, O142, O157, O180) and 10 H groups (H9, H10, H16, H21, H26, H29, H30, H32, H45, H46). This study reports the prevalence and characterization of STEC strains through the chain pork suggesting the vertical transmission. STEC contamination originates in the farms and is transferred from pigs to carcasses in the slaughter process and increase in meat pork at boning rooms and sales markets. These results highlight the need to implement an integrated STEC control system based on good management practices on the farm and critical control point systems in the food chain.

Characterization of antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella enterica strains isolated from Brazilian poultry production.

Antimicrobial resistance profiles and presence of resistance determinants and integrons were evaluated in Salmonella enterica strains from Brazilian poultry. The analysis of 203 isolates showed that those from the poultry environment (88 isolates) were significantly more resistant to antimicrobials than isolates from other sources, particularly those isolated from poultry by-product meal (106 isolates). Thirty-seven isolates were resistant to at least three antimicrobial classes. Class 1 integrons were detected in 26 isolates, and the analysis of the variable region between the 5' conserved segment (CS) and 3' CS of each class 1 integron-positive isolate showed that 13 contained a typical 3' CS and 14 contained an atypical 3' CS. One Salmonella Senftenberg isolate harbored two class 1 integrons, showing both typical and atypical 3' CSs. The highest percentage of resistance was found to sulfonamides, and sul genes were detected in the majority of the resistant isolates. Aminoglycoside resistance was detected in 50 isolates, and aadA and aadB were present in 28 and 32 isolates, respectively. In addition, strA and strB were detected in 78.1 and 65.6% isolates resistant to streptomycin, respectively. Twenty-one isolates presented reduced susceptibility to ß-lactams and harbored bla(TEM), bla(CMY), and/or bla(CTX-M). Forty isolates showed reduced susceptibility to tetracycline, and most presented tet genes. These results highlight the importance of the environment as a reservoir of resistant Salmonella, which may enable the persistence of resistance determinants in the poultry production chain, contributing, therefore, to the debate regarding the impacts that antimicrobial use in animal production may exert in human health.

Serodiversity and antimicrobial resistance profiles of detected Salmonella on swine production chain in Chiang Mai and Lamphun, Thailand

Background: Foodborne illness is growing public health problem worldwide. Salmonella is recognized as a major causeof this problem. Salmonella serotyping is a phenotypic characteristics which provided useful epidemiological markers forprimary discrimination. The emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistant of this pathogen have become a major publichealth concern. The objectives of this study were to determine Salmonella serotypes, and antimicrobial resistance profileson swine production chain (Farm-to-slaughtering process) in Chiang Mai and Lamphun, Thailand.Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 300 Salmonella strains were randomly selected from isolates recovered in2011-2013 in Chiang Mai and Lamphun, Thailand, including the isolates from fecal, lymph node, pest and environmentalsamples. Serotyping and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by WHO National Salmonella and Shigella center(Thailand). Salmonella isolates were serotyped by agglutination tests with antisera (S&A Reagents Lab Ltd., Thailand) onthe basis of somatic-O, as well as phase 1 and phase 2 flagellar antigens according to the Kauffmanne-White scheme. Inaddition, all serotyping Salmonella isolates were detected for antimicrobial susceptibility testing by using the disk diffusion method of the Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute. Ten antimicrobial agents were determined. The data werecollected and analyzed for descriptive statistical analysis by Epi Info ™7. Twenty-one Salmonella serotypes were detectedin both farms and slaughterhouses. Salmonella Rissen is the highest frequency found in both farms and slaughterhouses(30.7% and 38.0%, respectively). Thirty three antimicrobial resistance patterns were demonstrated. There were including10 common patterns isolated from pig farms and slaughterhouses. The highest frequency...(AU)