Intervention Strategies to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Poultry

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Poultry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 April 2025) | Viewed by 11290

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Poultry Production and Product Safety Research Unit (PPPSRU), USDA-ARS, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
Interests: foodborne pathogens; adaptive and innate immunity; irradiation; vaccines; food safety; metagenomics; antimicrobial resistance; microbiome; diet; phytochemicals; probiotics; prebiotics; organic acids
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Guest Editor
Poultry Production and Product Safety Research Unit (PPPSRU), USDA-ARS, University of Arkansas, 1260 W Maple St., O-304 POSC Building, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
Interests: microbiology; food safety; poultry

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
Interests: immunology; foodborne pathogens; adaptive immune response; inate immunity ; vaccine-derived immunity; food safety; antimicrobial resistance; vaccines

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Approximately 9 million people in the United States alone become sick annually due to foodborne diseases caused by known pathogens. Salmonella and Campylobacter are usually present in the intestinal tract of many wild and domestic animals, including poultry. Salmonella and Campylobacter cause human gastroenteritis, and poultry is considered a major reservoir and transmission source to humans worldwide. Though several control measures are in place, controlling Salmonella and Campylobacter in the poultry industry is challenging. In addition to existing good manufacturing practices, it is proposed that reducing the colonization of these foodborne pathogens using intervention methods in preharvest/preslaughter and/or postharvest stages, in addition to existing good manufacturing practices, can translate into a reduced number of human outbreaks and infections.

This Special Issue aims to provide articles that showcase the current issues and the research addressed by the title, “Intervention Strategies to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Poultry”. As Guest Editor of this Special Issue, we invite you to submit original research articles, review articles, and short communications related to controlling foodborne in poultry.

Dr. Palmy Jesudhasan
Dr. Komala Arsi
Dr. Anna Luiza Facchetti Vinhaes Assumpção
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • phytochemicals
  • probiotics
  • prebiotics
  • organic acids anti-microbial peptides
  • Salmonella
  • Campylobacter
  • natural feed additives
  • diet
  • poultry
  • microbiome
  • metagenomics
  • toxins
  • antibiotic resistance
  • phage therapy
  • poultry health
  • vaccines
  • immunity

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 1978 KiB  
Article
Probiotic Lactocaseibacillus casei NK1 Enhances Growth and Gut Microbiota in Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli Challenged Broilers
by Nimra Khalid, Syed Mohsin Bukhari, Waqas Ali, Ali Ahmad Sheikh, Hafiz Muhammad Abdullah and Ali Nazmi
Animals 2025, 15(8), 1136; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15081136 - 15 Apr 2025
Viewed by 289
Abstract
The present study was conducted to assess the efficacy of Laboratory-Isolated Lactocaseibacillus casei NK1 (Lc. NK1) in broilers hypothesizing that, Lc. NK1 supplementation will enhance growth performance, modulate the gut microbiome, and reduce fecal pathogenic Escherichia coli in broilers. The experiment spanned 35 [...] Read more.
The present study was conducted to assess the efficacy of Laboratory-Isolated Lactocaseibacillus casei NK1 (Lc. NK1) in broilers hypothesizing that, Lc. NK1 supplementation will enhance growth performance, modulate the gut microbiome, and reduce fecal pathogenic Escherichia coli in broilers. The experiment spanned 35 days where 60 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four treatment groups (n = 15); control-group with no treatment (NC), APEC (challenged with E. coli only), CProb (received commercial probiotics), and LNK1 (treated with Lc. NK1). The APEC, CProb, and LNK1 groups were infected with E. coli O78 strain at 11 days of age. Growth performance analysis revealed that the LNK1 group by day 35 gained body weight similar to the CProb group, with both groups significantly outperforming the APEC group (p < 0.001). Both the LNK1 and CProp groups exhibited similar reduction in E. coli while increasing Lactobacillus colorizations in the cloacal swabs from day 21 to 35 of age (p > 0.05). Metagenomic analysis using 16S rRNA sequencing showed that the LNK1 group maintained a diverse and balanced gut microbiota, characterized by increased Firmicutes and reduced Proteobacteria. In contrast, the APEC group exhibited reduced diversity and dominance of Escherichia-Shigella (p < 0.001). These findings suggest Lc. NK1 could be a promising probiotic for enhancing gut health and growth performance in broilers, even under pathogenic challenges, offering a potential alternative to antibiotics in poultry production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intervention Strategies to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Poultry)
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13 pages, 439 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Allicin on the Growth of Clostridium spp. in the Digestive Track of Quails
by Aleksandra Makuch, Monika Ziomek, Magdalena Sapała, Kamil Drabik, Justyna Batkowska, Piotr Domaradzki, Ewelina Patyra and Tomasz Grenda
Animals 2025, 15(7), 906; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15070906 - 21 Mar 2025
Viewed by 328
Abstract
Allicin is a chemically complex bioactive compound synthesized in many varieties of garlic. The wide range of biological properties of allicin provides the basis for its potential use as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters that are currently prohibited in farm animal breeding. [...] Read more.
Allicin is a chemically complex bioactive compound synthesized in many varieties of garlic. The wide range of biological properties of allicin provides the basis for its potential use as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters that are currently prohibited in farm animal breeding. Among the many benefits resulting from the use of allicin in animal breeding, especially poultry, its modulating effect on intestinal microbiota, which includes the anaerobic spore-forming bacteria of the genus Clostridium spp., seems to be important. The material for this study consists of intestinal content collected from the caecums of Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica). Culture methods were used to isolate the strains, and the obtained isolates were identified based on their phenotypic characteristics. In addition, PCR methods were used for the detection of the ntnh gene-encoding non-haemagglutinin component of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), the detection of individual genes responsible for the production of major toxins by Clostridium perfringens, and the amplification of conservative 16S rDNA genes. The 16S rDNA amplicons were subsequently submitted to Sanger sequencing. The obtained sequences were analyzed using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST). The ntnh gene was not found in the genetic material of the isolated strains. Among the isolates suspected of belonging to the Clostridium perfringens species, the plc gene determining the production of the alpha toxin was detected, which justifies the classification of the strains into toxotype A. The Sanger sequencing results confirm the presence of mainly saprophytic species in the studied material. The statistical analysis indicated a statistically significant reduction in the level of Clostridium spp., obtained by the use of an appropriate dose of allicin. The presented research results indicate the significant impact of an appropriate dose of allicin on reducing the occurrence of anaerobic intestinal microbiota, while providing important information on the potential application of this compound in animal production in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intervention Strategies to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Poultry)
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16 pages, 1990 KiB  
Article
Effect of Ginger Root Extract on Intestinal Oxidative Status and Mucosal Morphometrics in Broiler Chickens
by Oluwabunmi O. Apalowo, Radiah C. Minor, Adedeji O. Adetunji, Deji A. Ekunseitan and Yewande O. Fasina
Animals 2024, 14(7), 1084; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071084 - 3 Apr 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2354
Abstract
This study was designed to assess the effect of ginger root extract (GRE) supplementation on the oxidative status and intestinal mucosal development in broiler chickens for 6 weeks. Day-old chicks (Ross 708 strain, n = 432) were distributed into six treatments with six [...] Read more.
This study was designed to assess the effect of ginger root extract (GRE) supplementation on the oxidative status and intestinal mucosal development in broiler chickens for 6 weeks. Day-old chicks (Ross 708 strain, n = 432) were distributed into six treatments with six replicate of twelve birds each: Negative CON (basal), MX (basal diet + bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD) 0.055 g/kg diet), GRE-1 (basal diet + 0.375% GRE), GRE-2 (basal diet + 0.75% GRE), GRE-3 (basal diet + 1.5% GRE), GRE-4 (basal diet + 3% GRE). Growth indices, goblets cell count, mucin (MUC2) in ileum tissue, antioxidant (SOD, CAT, and GPX) in ileum and liver, biological antioxidant potential (BAP), and reactive oxygen metabolite level in blood and intestinal villi measurement were determined. Body weight (BW) was highest (p < 0.05) in all groups except GRE-4, body weight gain (BWG) was best in GRE-1, while FCR was least in all groups except GRE-4. Optimum MUC2 gene expression, SOD, CAT, blood antioxidants, and intestinal morphometric values were observed in GRE-3. The inclusion of ginger root extract up to 1.5% improved growth and reduced oxidative stress while enhancing mucosal development in broiler chicks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intervention Strategies to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Poultry)
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Review

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17 pages, 633 KiB  
Review
A Mini-Review on Multi-Hurdle Control of Salmonella Along Poultry Production Continuum
by Eniola Betiku, T. Tiwa Ogundipe, Tanmaie Kalapala and Tomi Obe
Animals 2025, 15(6), 875; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15060875 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 555
Abstract
This mini-review presents common strategies for controlling Salmonella in poultry, addressing combined pre-harvest and post-harvest interventions to create a multi-hurdle approach. The goal is to highlight integrated approaches that enhance overall food safety and sustainability within the poultry industry. Current pre-harvest and post-harvest [...] Read more.
This mini-review presents common strategies for controlling Salmonella in poultry, addressing combined pre-harvest and post-harvest interventions to create a multi-hurdle approach. The goal is to highlight integrated approaches that enhance overall food safety and sustainability within the poultry industry. Current pre-harvest and post-harvest strategies are discussed, including industry practices and regulatory frameworks. Emphasis is placed on the implementation of biosecurity measures, vaccination, feed management, and environmental control in pre-harvest settings, as well as processing plant interventions such as antimicrobials for carcass decontamination, sanitation, and quality control measures. Pre-harvest strategies that have shown promise include enhanced biosecurity protocols, selective vaccinations for pathogenic Salmonella strains, and advanced feeding regimens. Post-harvest interventions, such as antimicrobial application for decontamination, have improved sanitation practices, and pathogen reduction technologies are also critical in reducing Salmonella prevalence. An integrated approach that combines both pre-harvest and post-harvest measures is essential for an effective Salmonella control program. Implementing a continuum of control strategies for Salmonella in poultry production is vital for ensuring food safety and protecting public health. Collaborative efforts between researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers are necessary to address emerging issues and enhance overall effectiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intervention Strategies to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Poultry)
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23 pages, 686 KiB  
Review
Mitigation Potential of Herbal Extracts and Constituent Bioactive Compounds on Salmonella in Meat-Type Poultry
by Oluteru E. Orimaye, Deji A. Ekunseitan, Paul C. Omaliko and Yewande O. Fasina
Animals 2024, 14(7), 1087; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071087 - 3 Apr 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3797
Abstract
Herbal extracts have been widely evaluated in poultry production for their beneficial effects and potential substitute for antibiotics, which contribute to AMR and risks to human health through the consumption of infected meat. Salmonellosis is a systemic infection caused by Salmonella, an [...] Read more.
Herbal extracts have been widely evaluated in poultry production for their beneficial effects and potential substitute for antibiotics, which contribute to AMR and risks to human health through the consumption of infected meat. Salmonellosis is a systemic infection caused by Salmonella, an intracellular bacterium with the ability to cause systemic infections with significant implications for both the health and safety of farmers and consumers. The excessive use of antibiotics has escalated the incidence of antibiotic resistance bacteria in the poultry and livestock industry, highlighting the urgent need for alternatives especially in meat-type poultry. Both in vivo usage and in vitro studies of bioactive compounds from herbal extracts have demonstrated the effective antimicrobial activities against pathogenic bacteria, showing promise in managing Salmonella infections and enhancing poultry performance. Phytobiotic feed additives have shown promising results in improving poultry output due to their pharmacological properties, such as stimulating consumption, and enhancing antioxidant properties and preventing the increasing antimicrobial resistance threats. Despite potential for synergistic effects from plant-derived compounds, a further investigation into is essential to fully understand their role and mechanisms of action, for developing effective delivery systems, and for assessing environmental sustainability in controlling Salmonella in poultry production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intervention Strategies to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Poultry)
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15 pages, 570 KiB  
Review
Antimicrobial Tolerance in Salmonella: Contributions to Survival and Persistence in Processing Environments
by Tomi Obe, Aaron S. Kiess and Ramakrishna Nannapaneni
Animals 2024, 14(4), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14040578 - 9 Feb 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2857
Abstract
Salmonella remains a top bacterial pathogen implicated in several food-borne outbreaks, despite the use of antimicrobials and sanitizers during production and processing. While these chemicals have been effective, Salmonella has shown the ability to survive and persist in poultry processing environments. This can [...] Read more.
Salmonella remains a top bacterial pathogen implicated in several food-borne outbreaks, despite the use of antimicrobials and sanitizers during production and processing. While these chemicals have been effective, Salmonella has shown the ability to survive and persist in poultry processing environments. This can be credited to its microbial ability to adapt and develop/acquire tolerance and/or resistance to different antimicrobial agents including oxidizers, acids (organic and inorganic), phenols, and surfactants. Moreover, there are several factors in processing environments that can limit the efficacy of these antimicrobials, thus allowing survival and persistence. This mini-review examines the antimicrobial activity of common disinfectants/sanitizers used in poultry processing environments and the ability of Salmonella to respond with innate or acquired tolerance and survive exposure to persists in such environments. Instead of relying on a single antimicrobial agent, the right combination of different disinfectants needs to be developed to target multiple pathways within Salmonella. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intervention Strategies to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Poultry)
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