New report tackles pathogens on livestock farms
Foodborne pathogens are responsible for 2.4 million cases of disease in the UK population each year.
A new report from Moredun Research Institute has uncovered the risk factors of, and possible interventions against, foodborne pathogens at livestock farms.
The study, commissioned by Food Standards Scotland and the Scottish government, seeks to reduce the risks of people developing illnesses from contaminated animals.
Foodborne pathogens are microbes which, when transmitted to humans, can cause serious illness. They are usually transmitted through consumption of infected food, or contact with products at any part of the food chain.
They cause approximately 2.4 million cases of disease in the UK population each year.
Moredun Research Institute investigated how the harmful microbes were entering livestock farm environments. It also followed how pathogens were transmitting to livestock and spreading, mainly through faecal contamination.
The research group says that it is vital that livestock farms examine their management practices to help reduce the risks.
This includes quarantining, biosecurity, hygiene, cleaning and disinfection. Livestock farms should also consider how they manage stocking density and age groups, housing, bedding and feed.
The group suggests that more targeted intervention, such as vaccination, may also be beneficial.
It recommends vaccines currently available to reduce production diseases in livestock, which can be caused by the same pathogens causing foodborne diseases. The use of such vaccines may not only tackle production diseases, but also impact the transmission of foodborne pathogens.
The full report also reveals the findings of a survey of livestock farmers, which sought to gather thoughts on the risks of foodborne pathogens and the potential intervention strategies.
Lee Innes, a professor at Moredun Research Institute, said: “We have welcomed the opportunity to investigate options that may be applied on livestock farms to reduce the risk and impact of foodborne pathogens.
“We are keen to continue our engagement with farmers to help identify specific risks along with development of practical intervention strategies that are applicable and appropriate for individual farm businesses."
Jane Horne, from Food Standards Scotland, said: "Protecting the public from foodborne pathogens requires a proactive approach at every stage of the food supply chain, starting with primary production.
“This report provides valuable insights into managing on-farm risks and highlights practical steps farmers can take to reduce the presence and transmission of these harmful microbes.”
The full report can be found here.
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With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
