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ZB00033: Poultry transport crate hygiene

Friday 17 September 2004

This review aims to provide information on current crate washing systems used by the UK industry.

Study Duration : January 2002 to July 2002

Contractor : University of Bristol

Background

Crates contaminated with salmonella and campylobacter are a recognised source for introducing these organisms to the chicken flock. This review will be carried out to obtain information on current crate washing systems used by the UK industry, including how they are being used and whether or not they are effective.

Research Approach

Information will be obtained from a range of different sources both in the UK and overseas. Nine companies, representing a cross-section of the UK poultry meat production and slaughter industries, will be interviewed and the information collected by completion of a standard questionnaire. Issues relating to crate hygiene will be gathered from a range of sources including experts in ADAS Consultancy, Veterinary Laboratories Agency, the University of Bristol and key stakeholders in the poultry industry. Information will also be obtained from a scientific literature review which focuses on crate hygiene.

Results and findings

The review revealed that most crate washing systems, as currently used, are not capable of removing either Salmonella and/or Campylobacter spp. from crates with any degree of regularity. It concludes that although it was clear that some of the crate washing systems inspected in this review were not being used under optimal conditions, there is insufficient information to produce guidance on best practice.

A number of areas where further research is needed were identified. The FSA has recently commissioned a research project that aims to optimise current crate washing systems and develop new systems as appropriate and the findings of this report will be addressed as part of that project.

Dissemination information

Final report is available from the FSA Library and Information centre. To obtain a copy, please contact the Enquiry Desk, Dr Elsie Widdowson Library and Information Services, Food Standards Agency tel: 020 7276 8181/8182 or by email: library&info@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk

Contact : Email : science@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk

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