Raw milk cheeses from Beira Baixa, Portugal-A contributive study for the microbiological hygiene and safety assessment.

Due to specific bacterial microbiota, raw milk cheeses have appreciated sensory properties. However, they may pose a threat to consumer safety due to potential pathogens presence. This study evaluated the microbiological contamination of 98 raw milk cheeses from Beira Baixa, Portugal. Presence and enumeration of Coagulase Positive Staphylococci (CPS), Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., pathogenic Escherichia coli, and indicator microorganisms (non-pathogenic E. coli and Listeria spp.) was attained. E. coli antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was also evaluated. PCR and/or Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was used to characterize E. coli, Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes isolates. Sixteen cheeses (16.3%) were classified as Satisfactory, 59 (60.2%) as Borderline and 23 (23.5%) as Unsatisfactory/Potential Injurious to Health. L. monocytogenes, CPS > 104 cfu g-1, Extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) and Salmonella spp. were detected in 4.1%, 6.1%, 3.1% and 1.0% of the samples, respectively. Listeria innocua (4.1%) and E. coli > 104 cfu g-1 (16.3%) were also detected. AMR E. coli was detected in 23/98 (23.5%) of the cheese samples, of which two were multidrug resistant. WGS identified genotypes already associated to human disease and Listeria spp. cluster analysis indicated that cheese contamination might be related with noncompliance with Good Hygiene Practices during cheese production.

Microbiological Quality and Safety of Brazilian Mozzarella Cheese During Production Stages.

This study assessed the microbiological quality and safety of mozzarella during various production stages in northern Tocantins, Brazil, by identifying critical biological points in the industrial environment within a tropical climatic region. Batches of mozzarella were evaluated, from raw milk to primary packaging, with a shelf life of 120 d at 4°C. Indicator microorganisms were quantified, and through microbiological and biomolecular approaches, Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were identified. In addition, the toxigenic potential of coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS) was characterized. Results indicated that the raw milk used for mozzarella production had low microbiological quality; pasteurization of raw milk effectively eliminated all identified pathogens and reduced microbiological counts (p > 0.05). An increase in bacterial counts (>2 log colony-forming unit [CFU]/g) and recontamination with Salmonella spp. and CPS, which potentially produce staphylococcal enterotoxin B, were observed during milk coagulation and curd draining. Stretching of the fermented curd reduced the enterobacteria, total coliforms, and Escherichia coli median values by 2.56, 2.64, and 2.3 log CFU/mL, respectively. Similarly, brining the pieces by immersion reduced the quantity of enterobacteria and total coliforms by 2.3 and 1.6 log CFU/mL, respectively. Of interest, in the freshly finished product, Salmonella spp. was present but L. monocytogenes was absent; however, after the shelf-life period, L. monocytogenes was present but Salmonella spp. was absent. Considering the environmental conditions that can promote the multiplication and preservation of pathogens and spoilage of dairy products in tropical climates, it is necessary to review operational hygiene procedures, particularly in milk coagulation vats and fermentation tables. This will ensure the production of high-quality mozzarella cheese with a reduced consumption risk.

Septicemic salmonellosis in suckling piglets resulting from improper intramuscular administration of an oral vaccine.

We describe an unusual outbreak of mortality in suckling piglets following the misadministration of an oral vaccine against Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Choleraesuis. Within 3-48 h of vaccination of a batch of ~700 piglets, ~300 developed marked swelling in the dorsal neck region, respiratory distress, fever, recumbency, and apathy. In total, ~100 died, and 4 were submitted for autopsy. Gross and microscopic lesions consisted of focally extensive areas of purple discoloration in the skin of the cervical region, associated with edema and hemorrhage in the subcutis and muscles. Additionally, there was interstitial pneumonia with marked interlobular edema and mild fibrinous pleuritis. Aerobic bacterial culture identified Salmonella Typhimurium (3 cases) and Salmonella Choleraesuis (1 case) in samples of skeletal muscle and lung and from pleural swab samples. Marked immunostaining against Salmonella spp. was observed in the skeletal muscle of the cervical region, as well as in blood vessels and macrophages from the lung, liver, spleen, and kidney. We concluded that inappropriate intramuscular administration of an oral vaccine against Salmonella resulted in septicemia and death in a batch of piglets.

Polymyxin Resistance in Salmonella: Exploring Mutations and Genetic Determinants of Non-Human Isolates.

Until 2015, polymyxin resistance was primarily attributed to chromosomal mutations. However, with the first report of mobile colistin resistance (mcr-1) in commensal Escherichia coli from food animals in China, the landscape has changed. To evaluate the presence of polymyxin resistance in Salmonella spp., a drop screening test for colistin and polymyxin B was carried out on 1156 isolates of non-human origin (animals, food, and the environment), received in Brazil, between 2016 and 2021. Subsequently, 210 isolates with resistant results in the drop test were subjected to the gold-standard test (broth microdilution) for both colistin and polymyxin B. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of 102 resistant isolates was performed for a comprehensive analysis of associated genes. Surprisingly, none of the isolates resistant to colistin in the drop test harbored any of the mcr variants (mcr-1 to mcr-10). WGS identified that the most common mutations were found in pmrA (n= 22; T89S) and pmrB (n = 24; M15T, G73S, V74I, I83A, A111V). Other resistance determinants were also detected, such as the aac(6')-Iaa gene in 72 isolates, while others carried beta-lactamase genes (blaTEM-1blaCTX-M-2, blaCMY-2). Additionally, genes associated with fluoroquinolone resistance (qnrB19, qnrS1, oqxA/B) were detected in 11 isolates. Colistin and polymyxin B resistance were identified among Salmonella from non-human sources, but not associated with the mcr genes. Furthermore, the already-described mutations associated with polymyxin resistance were detected in only a small number of isolates, underscoring the need to explore and characterize unknown genes that contribute to resistance.

Polymyxin Resistance in Salmonella: exploring mutations and genetic dDeterminants of non-human isolates

Until 2015, polymyxin resistance was primarily attributed to chromosomal mutations. However, with the first report of mobile colistin resistance (mcr-1) in commensal Escherichia coli from food animals in China, the landscape has changed. To evaluate the presence of polymyxin resistance in Salmonella spp., a drop screening test for colistin and polymyxin B was carried out on 1156 isolates of non-human origin (animals, food, and the environment), received in Brazil, between 2016 and 2021. Subsequently, 210 isolates with resistant results in the drop test were subjected to the gold-standard test (broth microdilution) for both colistin and polymyxin B. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of 102 resistant isolates was performed for a comprehensive analysis of associated genes. Surprisingly, none of the isolates resistant to colistin in the drop test harbored any of the mcr variants (mcr-1 to mcr-10). WGS identified that the most common mutations were found in pmrA (n= 22; T89S) and pmrB (n = 24; M15T, G73S, V74I, I83A, A111V). Other resistance determinants were also detected, such as the aac(6′)-Iaa gene in 72 isolates, while others carried beta-lactamase genes (blaTEM-1 blaCTX-M-2, blaCMY-2). Additionally, genes associated with fluoroquinolone resistance (qnrB19, qnrS1, oqxA/B) were detected in 11 isolates. Colistin and polymyxin B resistance were identified among Salmonella from non-human sources, but not associated with the mcr genes. Furthermore, the already-described mutations associated with polymyxin resistance were detected in only a small number of isolates, underscoring the need to explore and characterize unknown genes that contribute to resistance.

Comprehensive evaluation of abattoirs with no Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point plan in Tucumán,Argentina / Evaluación integral de frigoríficos sin un plan de análisis de peligros y puntos críticos de control en Tucumán, Argentina

Abstract This work focused on the comprehensive study of two provincial transit abattoirs inTucumán, Argentina, with no Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan. Visits (n = 20)were conducted between 2016 and 2018 during the operational and post-operational processes.Risk was estimated and the bacteriological analysis of carcass and environmental samples wasperformed. Risk estimation showed the predominance of high risk in both abattoirs. The maindeviations from the HACCP plan were: deficient building conditions, deficient workflow, lack of sectorization of changing rooms and bathrooms, lack of implementation of Standardized Sanitary Operational Procedures, and no food safety training of workers. The counts of indi-cator microorganisms from both abattoirs were not significant. Salmonella spp. was isolated from 7.5% carcass and 7.3% environmental samples. The Salmonella serovars identified were Cerro, Corvallis, Havana and Agona. Shiga toxin (stx) genes were detected in 24.4% carcass and 30.9% environmental samples. The isolates were characterized as Escherichia coli O8:H7/stx1, O116:H49/stx2 and O136:H40/stx2. Based on these results, it would be possible to implement an improvement plan in Tucumán abattoirs together with the local health authorities. Still, the need to work jointly with the sanitary authority in search of a unique sanitary standard for Argentina remains unaddressed.

Resumen Este trabajo se centró en el estudio integral de dos frigoríficos de tránsito provincial en Tucumán, Argentina, carentes de un plan de análisis de peligros y puntos críticos de control (HACCP, por sus siglas en inglés). Las visitas (n = 20) se realizaron entre 2016 y 2018 durante los procesos operativos y posoperativos. Se realizó la estimación del riesgo y el análisis bacteriológico de medias reses y muestras ambientales. La estimación del riesgo demostró un predominio de riesgo alto en ambos frigoríficos. Las principales desviaciones del plan HACCP fueron las deficientes condiciones edilicias, un inadecuado flujo de trabajo, la falta de sectorización de vestuarios y banños, una implementación nula de procedimientos operativos estandarizados de saneamiento y una insuficiente capacitación en seguridad alimentaria de los operarios. Los recuentos de microorganismos indicadores de ambos frigoríficos no presentaron diferencias significativas. Salmonella spp. se aisló del 7,5% de muestras de medias reses y del 7,3% de muestras ambientales. Se identificaron las siguientes serovariedades de Salmonella: Cerro, Corvallis, Havana y Agona. Se detectaron genes de toxina Shiga (sfx) en el 24,4% de las muestras de medias reses y en el 30,9% de las muestras ambientales. Los aislamientos se caracterizaron como Escherichia coli O8:H7/sfx1, O116:H49/sfx2 y O136:H40/sfx2. Teniendo en cuenta estos resultados, sería posible implementar un plan de mejoramiento en frigoríficos de Tucumán conjuntamente con las autoridades locales de salud. Aun así, sigue sin abordarse la necesidad de trabajar en vinculación con las autoridades sanitarias en la búsqueda de una norma integrada única para Argentina.

Survival of Salmonella spp. under varying temperature and soil conditions.

Soils can serve as suitable reservoirs for or barriers against microbial contamination of water resources and plant produce. The magnitude of water or food contamination risks through soil depends on several factors, including the survival potential of microorganisms in the soil. This study assessed and compared the survival/persistence of 14 Salmonella spp. strains in loam and sandy soils at 5, 10, 20, 25, 30, 35, 37 °C and under uncontrolled ambient temperature conditions in Campinas Sao Paulo. The ambient temperature ranged from 6 °C (minimum) to 36 °C (maximum). Bacterial population densities were determined by the conventional culture method (plate counts) and monitored for 216 days. Statistical differences among the test parameters were determined by Analysis of Variance, while relationships between temperature and soil type were evaluated using Pearson correlation analysis. Similarly, relationships between time and temperature for survival of the various strains were evaluated using Pearson correlation analysis. Results obtained indicate that temperature and soil type influence the survival of Salmonella spp. in soils. All 14 strains survived for up to 216 days in the organic-rich loam soil under at least three of the temperature conditions evaluated. However, comparatively lower survival rates were recorded in sandy soil, especially at lower temperature. The optimum temperature for survival varied among the strains, where some survived best at 5 °C and others between 30 and 37 °C. Under uncontrolled temperature conditions, the Salmonella strains survived better in loam than in sandy soils. Bacterial growth over post inoculation storage period was overall more impressive in loam soil. In general, the results indicate that temperature and soil type can interact to influence the survival of Salmonella spp. strains in soil. For the survival of some strains, there were significant correlations between soil type and temperature, while for some others, no significant relationship between soil and temperature was determined. A similar trend was observed for the correlation between time and temperature.

Orquiepididimitis por Salmonella spp en un lactante bajo los tres meses de edad / Salmonella spp epididymo-orchitis in a infant under three months-old

El compromiso genitourinario en una infección causada por Salmonella spp es poco frecuente, especialmente en niños. Se presenta un paciente de 40 días de vida que presentó una orquiepididimitis por Salmonella entérica serotipo Newport, con documentación microbiológica en hemocultivos, cultivo de secreción escrotal y coprocultivo. No presentó compromiso del sistema nervioso central. Un tratamiento médico y quirúrgico tempranos permitieron la evolución favorable del paciente.

Genitourinary involvement in a Salmonella spp infection is rare, especially in pediatric patients. A 40-day-old patient who presented an orchiepididymitis due to Salmonella enterica Serotype Newport is reported, with microbiological documentation in blood cultures, culture of scrotal purulent material and stool culture. There was no involvement of the central nervous system. Early medical and surgical treatment allowed the favorable evolution of the patient.

Comprehensive evaluation of abattoirs with no Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point plan in Tucumán, Argentina.

This work focused on the comprehensive study of two provincial transit abattoirs in Tucumán, Argentina, with no Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan. Visits (n=20) were conducted between 2016 and 2018 during the operational and post-operational processes. Risk was estimated and the bacteriological analysis of carcass and environmental samples was performed. Risk estimation showed the predominance of high risk in both abattoirs. The main deviations from the HACCP plan were: deficient building conditions, deficient workflow, lack of sectorization of changing rooms and bathrooms, lack of implementation of Standardized Sanitary Operational Procedures, and no food safety training of workers. The counts of indicator microorganisms from both abattoirs were not significant. Salmonella spp. was isolated from 7.5% carcass and 7.3% environmental samples. The Salmonella serovars identified were Cerro, Corvallis, Havana and Agona. Shiga toxin (stx) genes were detected in 24.4% carcass and 30.9% environmental samples. The isolates were characterized as Escherichia coli O8:H7/stx1, O116:H49/stx2 and O136:H40/stx2. Based on these results, it would be possible to implement an improvement plan in Tucumán abattoirs together with the local health authorities. Still, the need to work jointly with the sanitary authority in search of a unique sanitary standard for Argentina remains unaddressed.

Occurrence of Salmonella spp. in fecal samples from foals with and without diarrhea in the state of São Paulo: microbiological diagnosis, antimicrobial susceptibility profile, and molecular detection / Ocorrência de Salmonella spp. em amostras fecais de potros com e sem diarreia no estado de São Paulo: diagnóstico microbiológico, perfil de susceptibilidade aos antimicrobianos e detecção molecular

The present study investigated Salmonella spp. in the feces of 200 foals up to one year of age (100 with clinical signs of diarrhea and 100 without clinical signs of diarrhea). Bacteriological culture, serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility, and real-time PCR (qPCR SYBR® Green or a TaqMan®) for detecting the invA gene (with and without a selective pre-enrichment step in tetrathionate broth) were performed. Bacterial culture revealed 15% (n=30) of positive animals (21 animals with diarrhea and nine without diarrhea). Among the 30 isolates, 13 different serovars were identified: S. Infantis, S. Minnesota, S. I.4,5,12:i:-; S. Anatum, S. Cerro, S. Oranienburg, S. Braenderup, S. Give, S. Newport, S. IIIb 61:c:z35, S. 109:-:1.5, S. I.4.12:d:-, S. I.6.8:-:-. Multidrug resistance was found in 43.33% (n=13) of the isolates, with one isolate obtained from animals without diarrhea and 12 isolates from animals with diarrhea. All qPCR techniques used in the study classified more samples as positive for Salmonella spp. than the bacterial culture of feces. In addition, all qPCR techniques detected more positive animals in the diarrhea group than in the diarrhea-free group. The results confirm the utility of the qPCR method without the pre-enrichment step in tetrathionate as a rapid test for Salmonella spp. in carrier animals. In animals with clinical signs of diarrhea, it can be combined with bacterial culture (antimicrobial susceptibility testing and serotyping). The isolation of Salmonella spp. in nine animals without diarrhea confirms the importance of asymptomatic carrier animals in the epidemiology of the disease. The multidrug resistance observed highlights the importance of rational antimicrobial use in horses and adopting biosecurity protocols that are efficacious in controlling the spread of infections between animals and zoonotic transmission in farms.

O presente estudo investigou a ocorrência de Salmonella spp. em fezes de 200 potros com até um ano de idade (100 com sinais clínicos de diarreia e 100 sem sinais clínicos de diarreia), utilizando as técnicas de cultivo bacteriológico e PCR em tempo real (qPCR) pelos métodos de corante fluorescente (SYBR® Green) e sonda específica (Taqman®) para a detecção do gene invA com e sem etapa de pré-enriquecimento seletivo em caldo de tetrationato. O cultivo bacteriológico revelou 15% (n=30) de animais positivos (21 animais com diarreia e nove animais sem diarreia). Dentre esses 30 isolados, 13 sorovares diferentes foram identificados: S. Infantis, S. Minnesota, S. I.4,5,12:i:-; S. Anatum, S. Cerro, S. Oranienburg, S. Braenderup, S. Give, S. Newport, S. IIIb 61:c:z35, S. 109:-:1.5, S. I.4.12:d:-, S. I.6.8:-:-. Multirresistência foi constatada em 43,33% (n=13) dos isolados, sendo um isolado obtido de animal sem diarreia e 12 isolados de animais com diarreia. Todas as técnicas de qPCR empregadas no estudo apresentaram maior número de amostras classificadas como positivas para Salmonella spp. comparadas ao cultivo bacteriológico de fezes. Adicionalmente, em todas as técnicas de qPCR houve maior número de animais detectados como positivos no grupo de animais com diarreia em relação aos animais sem diarreia. Os resultados confirmaram a utilidade do método qPCR sem a etapa de pré-enriquecimento em tetrationato, como um teste rápido para detecção de Salmonella spp. em animais portadores ou em animais com sinais clínicos de diarreia. O cultivo bacteriológico deve ser associado para a realização do teste de sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos e sorotipificação. O isolamento de Salmonella spp. em nove animais sem diarreia, confirma a importância dos animais portadores assintomáticos na epidemiologia da doença. A multirresistência observada evidencia a importância do uso racional de antimicrobianos em equinos e a importância da adoção de protocolos de biossegurança que sejam eficazes para controlar a disseminação de infecções entre animais e a transmissão zoonótica nas fazendas.

Peligros microbiológicos relacionados con alimentos fermentados de elaboración artesanal comercializados en Tunja, Nariño y Cauca / Microbiological risks related to artisanal fermented foods marketed in Tunja, Nariño and Cauca

RESUMEN Varios factores intervienen en la calidad de los alimentos, como los físicos, químicos, nutricionales, sensoriales y microbiológicos. Este último es importante, ya que, afecta las propiedades organolépticas del producto terminado y, además, puede ocasionar riesgos de salud pública asociados a peligros microbiológicos. Colombia es un país rico en gastronomía, incluyendo alimentos fermentados de elaboración artesanal (AFEA), los cuales son una alternativa actual para sistemas agroalimentarios que buscan alimentos más naturales. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los criterios microbiológicos en AFEA y el cumplimiento de requisitos sanitarios para sensibilizar a productores de bebidas artesanales y revalorizar los productos. Se tomaron en cuenta 11 productores artesanales de Masato, Champús y Almidón agrio de yuca en zonas rurales del país, que voluntariamente aceptaron participar. Se midieron los parámetros de pH, humedad, sólidos solubles y recuentos microbiológicos. Con estos resultados, se pudo calcular el porcentaje de conformidad de los alimentos, de los cuales el 36 % de productos evaluados fueron aptos para el consumo. Se incumplieron los límites establecidos para Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus y Salmonella sp. Los análisis fisicoquímicos mostraron que el Masato y el Champús aportan condiciones abióticas para el crecimiento microbiano. Además, los productores Almidón agrio de yuca tuvieron mayor valoración en el cumplimiento de requisitos sanitarios y menor cumplimiento que los productores de Champús. Los análisis realizados indican que la mayoría de los alimentos incumplieron los límites permitidos por lo cual se debe capacitar a los productores en buenas prácticas de manufactura.

ABSTRACT Several factors intervene in the quality of the food, such as physical, chemical, nutritional, sensory, and microbiological. The latter is important as it affects the sensory properties of the finished product, and it can also cause public health risks associated with microbiological hazards. Colombia is a country rich in gastronomy, including artisanal fermented foods (AFEA), which are a current alternative for agri-food systems seeking for more natural foods. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological criteria in AFEA and its compliance with the sanitary requirements to raise the awareness among crafted beverages producers and revalue the products. Eleven artisan producers of masato, champús and sour cassava starch in rural areas of the country, who voluntarily agreed to participate, were considered. The parameters of pH, humidity, soluble solids, and microbiological counts were measured. With these results, it was possible to calculate the compliance rate of the food, from which 36% of the products evaluated were fit for consumption. The limits established for Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Salmonella spp were breached. Physicochemical analysis showed that Masato and Champús provide abiotic conditions for microbial growth. In addition, the Sour cassava starch producers had higher compliance ratings regarding sanitary requirements but lower compliance ratings than champús producers. The performed analysis indicates that most of the food did not comply with the permitted limits, which is why producers must be trained in good manufacturing practices.

Salmonella Behavior in Meat during Cool Storage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The aim of the present study was to investigate Salmonella behavior in meat stored in cool conditions (between 0 °C and 7.5 °C), by employing a systematic review and meta-analysis. The data were obtained from research articles published in SciELO, PubMed, the Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The results of the retrieved studies were obtained from meat (beef, chicken, pork, poultry, and turkey), fish, shellfish, and broth media samples The data were extracted as sample size (n), initial concentration (Xi), final concentration (Xf), standard deviation (SD), standard error (SE), and microbial behavior effects (reduction or growth). A meta-analysis was carried out using the metaphor package from R software. A total of 654 articles were initially retrieved. After applying the exclusion criteria, 83 articles were selected for the systematic review, and 61 of these were used for the meta-analysis. Most studies were conducted at 0 °C to 4.4 °C storage temperatures under normal atmosphere package conditions. Salmonella Typhimurium, S. Enteritidis, and a cocktail (strain mixture) were inoculated at 5.0 and 6.0 log CFU mL−1. Articles both with and without the addition of antimicrobial compounds were found. Salmonella concentration decreases were observed in most studies, estimated for all study combinations as −0.8429 ± 0.0931 log CFU g−1 (95% CI; −1.0254, −0.6604) (p < 0.001), varying for each subgroup analysis. According to this survey, Salmonella concentration decreases are frequent during cool storage, although concentration increases and no bacterial inactivation were observed in some studies.

Microbiological Quality and Presence of Foodborne Pathogens in Raw and Extruded Canine Diets and Canine Fecal Samples.

Pet food can be a source of microbiological hazards that might affect companion animals and owners. Even though owners usually rely on conventional pet diets, such as extruded diets, new feeding practices, such as raw meat-based diets (RMBDs), have grown. RMBDs' benefits are still scientifically uncertain, while its risks have been documented. The use of canine RMBDs might increase the exposure to zoonotic pathogens, such as Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter spp., among others. Identifying pathogen prevalence in canine food and pets is required to contribute to public health measures. The aims of this study were: (1) to compare the microbiological quality of RMBDs and extruded diets (2) to identify and compare the prevalence of Salmonella spp., Campylobacter jejuni, and L. monocytogenes from raw and extruded canine diets and canine fecal samples, and (3) to characterize pet owners according to the diet chosen to be used on their pets, their motivations for using RMBDs, and their knowledge about benefits and risks related to this feeding practice. Conventional and molecular microbiological methods were used to identify pathogen presence from food and fecal samples, while pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was performed to evaluate the clonal relationship between isolates. Aerobic plate counts for RMBDs were higher than those detected for extruded diets. Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes were isolated from 35.7% (15/42) RMBDs, while Salmonella spp., C. jejuni, and L. monocytogenes from 33.3% (11/33) fecal samples from RMBD-fed dogs. From the RMBD samples positive to Salmonella spp., chicken was the main meat ingredient composing the diets. PFGE analysis confirmed a genetic association between Salmonella spp. isolates from fecal and raw food samples from the same household. We did not detect pathogens from extruded food samples or feces from extruded-fed dogs. Using a survey, we identified dog owners' unawareness and/or underestimation of risks related to RMBDs. We demonstrated that canine raw pet food might be a source of zoonotic foodborne pathogens that represent a health risk for both humans and pets. While clinical findings caused by the mentioned pathogens vary among pets, the zoonotic potential implies a significant concern.

Avaliação da qualidade microbiológica do queijo de coalho comercializado na praia de Copacabana - RJ / Evaluation of the microbiological quality of coalho cheese commercialized on Copabacabana beach

A pesquisa teve o objetivo de avaliar as condições higiênicas e sanitárias de comercialização do queijo de coalho por vendedores ambulantes na praia de Copacabana, por meio de inspeção visual e análises microbiológicas. Para o estudo foram coletadas quinze amostras de cinco diferentes ambulantes e estas foram encaminhadas para o Centro Estadual de Pesquisa em Qualidade de Alimentos da Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (PESAGRO-RIO/CEPQA) onde foram submetidas às análises microbiológicas. O resultado da avaliação visual das condições higiênico-sanitárias demonstrou 100% de não conformidades em relação à adoção das Boas Práticas de Fabricação por parte dos manipuladores. Os resultados das contagens de Estafilococos coagulase positiva e de Coliformes termotolerantes se apresentaram acima do limite preconizado pela legislação vigente em 75% e 6,7% das amostras respectivamente. Em 25% das amostras foi verificada a presença de Salmonella spp. O estudo demonstrou que o queijo de coalho vendido por ambulantes da praia de Copacabana estava impróprio para o consumo podendo representar risco à saúde dos consumidores.(AU)

The research aimed to evaluate the hygienic and sanitary commercialized conditions of coalho cheese by street vendors on Copacabana beach, through visual inspection and microbiological analysis. For conducting the study, fifteen samples were collected from five different street vendors and these were analyzed at the State Center for Research in Food Quality of the Agriculture Research Company of the State of Rio de Janeiro (PESAGRO-RIO/CEPQA). The result of the visual assessment of hygienic-sanitary conditions demonstrated 100% of non-conformities in relation to the adoption of Good Manufacturing Practices by the manipulators. In counts of coagulase positive Staphylococcus and Thermotolerant Coliforms were above the limit recommended by the current legislation in 75% and 6.7% of the samples, respectively. Salmonella spp. was present in 25% of the analyses.The study showed that the coalho cheese sold by street vendors on Copacabana beach was unfit for consumption and could pose a risk to consumer health.(AU)

High antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli isolates from swine fecal samples submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Colombia

Background: Commensal microflora such as Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp. are representative indicators of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as they are part of the normal intestinal microflora and can acquire and disseminate AMR to pathogenic or zoonotic bacteria like Salmonella spp. Objective: To investigate the state of AMR among E. coli and Salmonella spp., potential pathogens in humans, isolated from cecal contents of pigs submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Colombia from 2016 to 2019. Methods: Susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines for antimicrobial zone diameter breakpoints. An E. coli strain (ATCC 25922) was used as the quality control organism. Isolates showing resistance to three or more antimicrobial classes were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR) as defined by a joint group of the European Centre for Disease prevention and Control and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the USA. Results: A total of 112 E. coli and 192 Salmonella spp. colonies were isolated from 557 samples received between 2016 and 2019. In order of decreasing frequency, E. coli was resistant to tetracycline (100%), sulfamethoxazol-trimethoprim (97.5%), amoxicillin (86.4%), enrofloxacin (82.6%), tylosin (82.1%), doxycycline (59%), neomycin (50%), ciprofloxacin (45.5%), ceftiofur (35%), gentamicin (30%), tilmicosin (29%), and fosfomycin (12.5%). When compared with E. coli, Salmonella spp. was generally resistant to the same agents with slightly less resistance (between 10-30%) to eight of the antimicrobials tested. Salmonella spp. showed <20% resistance to three antimicrobials, as follows: neomycin (17%), gentamicin (16%), and fosfomycin (14%). Multi-resistance occurred in 68.7% (77/112) of E. coli and 70.3% (135/192) of Salmonella spp. isolates. Resistance of Salmonella spp. was alarming to all the critically important antimicrobials tested: fluoroquinolones (enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin), ceftiofur (third- generation cephalosporin), and macrolides (tylosin). Conclusions: According to our results, there is a high level of multi- drug resistance (MDR) in E. coli and Salmonella spp. It is necessary to implement a nationwide antimicrobial resistance monitoring program in Colombia, together with proper antimicrobial prescribing guidelines for pigs. The indiscriminate use of antimicrobial growth promoters by the swine industry is generating widespread bacterial resistance and should be discontinued.

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Antecedentes: Flora comensal como espécies de Escherichia coli e Enterococcus são tipicamente escolhidas como indicadores representativos de la resistência antimicrobiana (AMR), pois fazem parte da flora intestinal normal e podem adquirir e disseminar AMR a bactérias patogênicas ou zoonóticas como Salmonella spp. Objetivo: Investigar o estado da AMR entre E. coli e Salmonella spp. isolados do conteúdo cecal de porcos colombianos submetidos ao Laboratório de Diagnóstico Veterinário de 2016 a 2019, ambos sendo patógenos potenciais em humanos. Métodos: O teste de suscetibilidade foi conduzido usando o método de difusão em disco Kirby-Bauer de acordo com as diretrizes do Instituto de Padrões Clínicos e Laboratoriais para pontos de quebra de diâmetro da zona antimicrobiana. A cepa de E. coli (ATCC 25922) foi usada como organismo de controle de qualidade. Os isolados que apresentam resistência a três ou mais classes de antimicrobianos foram classificados como multirresistentes (MDR), conforme definido por um grupo conjunto do Centro Europeu para Prevenção e Controle de Doenças e Centro para Controle e Prevenção de Doenças dos EUA. Resultados: Um total de 112 E. coli e 192 Salmonella spp. foram isolados de 557 amostras submetidas entre 2016 e 2019. Em ordem decrescente de frequência, a resistência a E. coli foi: tetraciclina (100%), sulfametoxazol-trimetoprim (97,5%), amoxicilina (86,4%), enrofloxacina (82,6%), tilosina (82,1%), doxiciclina (59%), neomicina (50%), ciprofloxacina (45,5%), ceftiofur (35%), gentamicina (30%), tilmicosina (29%) e fosfomicina (12,5%). Quando comparada com E. coli, Salmonella spp. foi geralmente resistente aos mesmos agentes com resistência ligeiramente menor (entre 10-30%) a oito dos antimicrobianos. Apenas três antimicrobianos apresentaram resistência a Salmonella spp. abaixo de 20% da seguinte forma: neomicina (17%), gentamicina (16%) e fosfomicina (14%). Multi-resistência ocorreu em 68,7% (77/112) de E. coli e 70,3% (135/192) de Salmonella spp. isolados. Resistência de Salmonella spp. foi alarmante para todos os antimicrobianos criticamente importantes testados: fluoroquinolonas (enrofloxacina, ciprofloxacina), ceftiofur (cefalosporina de terceira geração) e macrolídeos (tilosina). Conclusões: Esses resultados indicam um alto nível de resistência a múltiplos medicamentos (MDR) e que um Programa Nacional de Monitoramento da Resistência Antimicrobiana é necessário para a Colômbia, juntamente com a implementação de diretrizes de prescrição de antimicrobianos para suínos. O uso indiscriminado de antimicrobianos para promoção de crescimento na indústria suína está claramente promovendo resistência generalizada e deve ser interrompido.

Avaliação da qualidade microbiológica do queijo de coalho comercializado na praia de Copacabana ­ RJ / Evaluation of the microbiological quality of coalho cheese commercialized on Copacabana beach ­ RJ

A pesquisa teve o objetivo de avaliar as condições higiênicas e sanitárias de comercialização do queijo de coalho por vendedores ambulantes na praia de Copacabana, por meio de inspeção visual e análises microbiológicas. Para o estudo foram coletadas quinze amostras de cinco diferentes ambulantes e estas foram encaminhadas para o Centro Estadual de Pesquisa em Qualidade de Alimentos da Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (PESAGRO-RIO/CEPQA) onde foram submetidas às análises microbiológicas. O resultado da avaliação visual das condições higiênico-sanitárias demonstrou 100% de não conformidades em relação à adoção das Boas Práticas de Fabricação por parte dos manipuladores. Os resultados das contagens de Estafilococos coagulase positiva e de Coliformes termotolerantes se apresentaram acima do limite preconizado pela legislação vigente em 75% e 6,7% das amostras respectivamente. Em 25% das amostras foi verificada a presença de Salmonella spp. O estudo demonstrou que o queijo de coalho vendido por ambulantes da praia de Copacabana estava impróprio para o consumo podendo representar risco à saúde dos consumidores

The research aimed to evaluate the hygienic and sanitary commercialized conditions of coalho cheese by street vendors on Copacabana beach, through visual inspection and microbiological analysis. For conducting the study, fifteen samples were collected from five different street vendors and these were analyzed at the State Center for Research in Food Quality of the Agriculture Research Company of the State of Rio de Janeiro (PESAGRO-RIO/CEPQA). The result of the visual assessment of hygienic-sanitary conditions demonstrated 100% of non-conformities in relation to the adoption of Good Manufacturing Practices by the manipulators. In counts of coagulase positive Staphylococcus and Thermotolerant Coliforms were above the limit recommended by the current legislation in 75% and 6.7% of the samples, respectively. Salmonella spp. was present in 25% of the analyses.The study showed that the coalho cheese sold by street vendors on Copacabana beach was unfit for consumption and could pose a risk to consumer health

Agricultural practices in Brazilian organic farms and microbiological characteristics of samples collected along the production chain.

AIMS: To gather data on agricultural practices in organic farms in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and evaluate their relationship with the microbiological characteristics of samples collected along the production chain. METHODS AND RESULTS: Practices data were based on field observations and interviews with farmers in 10 selected organic lettuce producing farms. Counts of Enterobacteriaceae and surveys for Salmonella were performed in samples of lettuce (before and after washing), fertilizers, irrigation and washing water, all collected in the same farm. Water samples were also tested for total coliforms and generic Escherichia coli. Isolated Enterobacteriaceae were identified by MALDI-TOF MS. Contamination of lettuce was influenced by some agricultural practices: chicken manure-based fertilization resulted in higher Enterobacteriaceae counts in lettuce when compared to other types of manure, whereas pre-washed lettuces presented lower microbial counts than non-pre-washed samples. Salmonella was detected in one lettuce sample by qPCR. Escherichia coli was detected in all irrigation water samples. All sample types contained Enterobacteriaceae species commonly reported as opportunistic human pathogens. CONCLUSIONS: The data highlight the need for improvement in the good agricultural practices in the studied farms. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This study provides information on agricultural practices and microbiological characteristics of organic lettuce, contributing to the development of more accurate risk assessments.

The Use of A Compound Based on Phyllosilicates and Cinnamon Essential Oil for Chicken Broiler's Litter

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a litter conditioning compound (LCC) based on 98% phyllosilicates (kaolinite) and 2% cinnamon essential oil to be applied on the litter of broiler houses. Animal performance, prevalence of footpad lesions, and litter quality (water activity, pH, and moisture) were evaluated, in addition to the effect on the incidence of Salmonella spp., evaluated by testing shoe-drag swabs, fecal samples, and organs. Twenty-one broiler houses with similar structure and rearing conditions were distributed in a completely randomized design with three treatments and seven replications each, as follows: T0: control, without the use of LCC; T100: application of 100 grams of LCC per m² of litter per week; T200: application of 200 grams of LCC per m² of litter per week. There was no significant effect of treatments on performance variables; however litter pH was lower when 200g/m2 was used in comparison with the control treatment, a result not verified for moisture and water activity (p>0.05). Our findings demonstrated significant reduction in the percentage of footpad lesions in birds that received the LCC (T0: 63.37%; T100: 41.38% and T200: 27.24%). A reduction in the number of positive flocks for Salmonella spp. Was also observed (with overall positivity rates of 17.86%, 12.14%, and 5% for treatments T0, T100, and T200, respectively). It is concluded that the product reduces the incidence of Salmonella spp. and also significantly reduces the incidence of footpad lesions, two important factors for the poultry industry.(AU)

Pathogenic bacteria load and safety of retail marine fish / Carga de bactérias patogênicas e segurança de peixes marinhos de varejo

This study was conducted to determine the pathogenic bacteria load of 14 species of marine fish obtained from two suppliers (in Bitlis city, Turkey), which provide fish for fish markets, and to reveal the safety of the marine fish in terms of microbiological quality. The counts of total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB), Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli, the presence of Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were determined in anchovy, horse mackerel, salmon, red mullet, gilthead seabream, bonito, pilchard, common sole, sand smelt, axillary seabream, seabass, Mediterranean horse mackerel, bluefish, and garpike. It was determined that common sole, axillary seabream, seabass, bluefish and Mediterranean horse mackerel obtained from both suppliers were unacceptable in terms of the counts of TMAB. Twenty-four samples exceeded the critical limit of S. aureus and all the samples were unacceptable according to the critical limit of E. coli. While L. monocytogenes was isolated from 50.0% of the samples, Salmonella spp. was isolated from 39.3% of the samples. These results showed that the pathogenic bacteria load of the analyzed marine fish was quite high and they were unsafe in terms of microbiological quality.

Este estudo foi realizado para determinar a carga de bactérias patogênicas de 14 espécies de peixes marinhos obtidos de dois fornecedores (na cidade de Bitlis, Turquia), que fornecem peixes para mercados de peixes, e para revelar a segurança do peixe marinho em termos de qualidade microbiológica. As contagens de bactérias aeróbias mesófilas totais (TMAB), Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli, a presença de Salmonella spp. e Listeria monocytogenes foram determinados em anchova, carapau, salmão, salmonete, dourada, bonito, sardinha, linguado, cheirado, dourada-axilar, robalo, carapau-do-mediterrâneo, anchova e garpike. Foi determinado que o linguado, o dourada-axilar, o robalo, a anchova e o carapau-do-mediterrâneo obtidos de ambos os fornecedores eram inaceitáveis nas contagens do TMAB. Vinte e quatro amostras excederam o limite crítico de S. aureus, e todas as amostras foram inaceitáveis de acordo com o limite crítico de E. coli. Enquanto L. monocytogenes foi isolada em 50.0% das amostras, Salmonella spp. foi isolado de 39.3% das amostras. Esses resultados mostraram que a carga de bactérias patogênicas dos peixes marinhos analisados era bastante alta e eles eram inseguros em termos de qualidade microbiológica.

Immunological and biossensory techniques for detection of Salmonella spp. in food derived from fish farming- review / Técnicas imunológicas e biossensoriais para detecção de Salmonella spp. em alimentos derivados da piscicultura ­ revisão de literatura / Técnicas inmunológicas y biosensoriales para detección de Salmonella spp. en alimentos derivados de piscicultura - revisión de literatura

Salmonellosis is the world's most common foodborne illness. In Brazil, foods contaminated by salmonella lead the statistics. Therefore, the aim of this study is, through biotechnological knowledge, to compile alternative and innovative techniques for the detection of salmonella in foods, such as fish-farming derivatives, immunological and biosensorial techniques. This is a descriptive exploratory data survey of a qualitative nature, aiming at data analysis. Research and data collection were carried out in bibliographic databases: Academic Google, Scielo, CAPES journals and institutional repositories using specific descriptors - in Portuguese and English, with words and terms separated by the Boolean operators 'AND' and 'OR'. Some innovative and alternative methods are available to identify the presence of salmonella in food. Immunological and biosensory techniques, despite being less frequent in the scientific literature than molecular methods, are techniques that present high specificity and sensitivity. These techniques have been the most developed alternative methods in fish in recent years. And, they can employ both molecular and immunological techniques in biorecognition, which is characterized as an advantage of not having a requirement for pre-enrichment of the sample. According to the literature found, the techniques covered in this study are quick to respond, which speeds up decision-making by researchers and technicians, which makes the techniques very promising for industrial application.(AU)

A salmonelose é uma enfermidade de maior ocorrência no mundo veiculada por alimentos. No Brasil, alimentos contaminados por salmonelas lideram as estatísticas. Por isso, o objetivo desse estudo é através dos conhecimentos biotecnológicos compilar técnicas alternativas e inovadoras para a detecção de salmonelas em alimentos, como os derivados da piscicultura, as técnicas imunológicas e biossensoriais. Trata-se de um estudo de levantamento de dados descritivo exploratório de de caráter qualitativo, visando à análise dos dados. As pesquisas e coletas de dados foram realizadas nas bases bibliográficas: Google Acadêmico, Scielo, periódicos da CAPES e repositórios institucionais utilizando os descritores específicos - nos idiomas português e inglês, com palavras e termos separados pelos operadores booleanos 'AND' e 'OR'. São disponibilizados alguns métodos inovadores e alternativos para identificação da presença de salmonelas em alimentos. As técnicas imunológicas e biossensoriais, apesar de serem menos frequentes na literatura científica do que os métodos moleculares são técnicas que apresentaram elevada especificidade e sensibilidade. Essas técnicas têm sido os métodos alternativos mais desenvolvidos em peixes nos últimos anos. E, podem empregar tanto técnicas moleculares como imunológicas no biorreconhecimento, o que se caracteriza como vantagem de não haver requerimento de pré-enriquecimento da amostra. Conforme a literatura encontrada, as técnicas abordadas por esse estudo apresentam rapidez de resposta o que agiliza as tomadas de decisões dos pesquisadores e técnicos, o que torna as técnicas bastante promissora para aplicação industrial.(AU)

La salmonelosis es la enfermedad transmitida por alimentos más común del mundo. En Brasil, los alimentos contaminados por salmonelas lideran las estadísticas. Por tanto, el objetivo de ese estudio fue a través de conocimientos biotecnológicos recopilar técnicas alternativas e innovadoras para la detección de salmonelas en los alimentos, como los derivados de la piscicultura, las técnicas inmunológicas y biosensoriales. Se trata de una encuesta de datos exploratorio descriptivo de carácter cualitativo, cuyo objetivo es el análisis de datos. Las investigaciones y recopilaciones de datos se realizaron en bases de datos bibliográficas: Google Académico, Scielo, revistas CAPES y repositorios institucionales utilizando descriptores específicos, en portugués e inglés, con palabras y términos separados por los operadores booleanos 'AND' y 'OR'. Se encuentran disponibles algunos métodos innovadores y alternativos para identificar la presencia de salmonela en los alimentos. Las técnicas inmunológicas y biosensoriales, a pesar de ser menos frecuentes en la literatura científica que los métodos moleculares, son técnicas de alta especificidad y sensibilidad. Esas técnicas han sido los métodos alternativos más desarrollados en peces en los últimos años. Y pueden emplear técnicas tanto moleculares como inmunológicas en el biorreconocimiento, que se caracteriza por la ventaja de no tener un requisito de preenriquecimiento de la muestra. Según la literatura encontrada, las técnicas abordadas en este estudio son de rápida respuesta, lo que agiliza la toma de decisiones por parte de investigadores y técnicos, lo que hace que las técnicas sean muy prometedoras para la aplicación industrial.(AU)