Applicability of rapid methods for detection of Salmonella spp. in poultry feeds: A review
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abstract
The rapid detection of pathogenic microbial species in feed is of paramount importance considering its implications for animal production and food safety. More sensitive and rapid detection of contaminated feedstuffs may lead to more selective and therefore less expensive treatment of feeds, reduced rates of transmission to a poultry host and reduced carcass contamination. In order to interrupt the cycle of Salmonella spp. transmission from feed to poultry to the consumer, more rapid detection methods to monitor these sources are needed that provide conclusive results within the time frame of feed mixing or broiler processing. Within the last decade, new variations of selective media have been investigated to increase selectivity without reducing Salmonella spp. recovery. Immunological assay methods may also decrease assay time from 96 h to within 24-30 h. But all commercially available methods still require 16 to 57 h for preenrichment, enrichment, and in some cases, postenrichment to recover sublethally injured cells before the assay can be performed. Among the molecular methods that are currently available, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) represents a tremendous potential for the detection of low levels of pathogenic bacteria. Once optimized, rapid methods may be used to quickly, reliably and inexpensively screen a variety of feedstuffs and feed components for the presence of Salmonella spp., with the goal of minimizing both the cost of feed treatment and the horizontal transmission of Salmonella spp, from feed to poultry.
