Investigation for possible source(s) of contamination of ready-to-eat meat products with Listeria spp. and other pathogens in a meat processing plant in Trinidad

摘要: In 2003, there was a recall of three processed (chicken franks, spice ham and turkey ready-to-eat (RTE) meat products by large processing plant in Trinidad as result contamination Listeria monocytogenes. The study conducted to investigate the possible source(s) recalled RTE determine prevalence spp., Salmonella Escherichia coli Campylobacter spp. air within plant. Raw products, well food contact surfaces were also tested for initially after thorough clean-up close-down Faecal effluent samples from piggery, close proximity plant, presence Air negative organisms. Ten (58.8%) 17 4 (11.8%) 34 faecal positive coli. Of 11 raw tested, 10 (90.9%) E. either singly or combination. 32 (34.4%) coli, combination singly. Eleven (61.1%) 18 contained unacceptable levels aerobic bacteria using international standards. Four months later, following implementation recommended cleaning, sanitizing hygienic practices at pre- post-processed sampled identified (80.0%) 5 1 (20.0%) finished products. Two (40.0%) microbial levels. It concluded that piggery not probable source data suggested improved sanitary on during handling reduced risk other pathogens studied. problem can therefore, be inferred due lapses good practices, inadequate heat treatments particularly biofilms different continuously occasionally contaminating