A new report has been launched looking at the risk factors for foodborne pathogens on livestock farms and the potential interventions that may be applied to reduce the risks. The report has been produced by Moredun Research Institute and commissioned by Food Standards Scotland and Scottish Government.
Foodborne pathogens are microbes that can cause illness in people through the consumption or handling of contaminated food and may occur at all stages of the food chain. This report focused on how these microbes enter the farm, are transmitted to livestock and subsequently spread, mainly through faecal contamination, into the farm environment. Management practices including quarantining, biosecurity, hygiene, cleaning and disinfection, stocking density and age groups, housing, bedding and feed are all important areas to consider when looking to reduce the risk from foodborne pathogens.
In addition, more targeted interventions such as vaccination may be beneficial to reduce the spread and transmission of foodborne pathogens. There are some vaccines currently available that act to reduce production diseases of livestock, caused by the same pathogens responsible for some of the foodborne diseases. Therefore, it may be possible that use of these production disease vaccines on farm may also impact on the risk and transmission of foodborne pathogens.
Professor Lee Innes, 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”.
The report also includes information from a survey of livestock farmers to gather their opinions and thoughts concerning the risks of foodborne pathogens and how potential intervention strategies might be best applied on the farm.
Dr Jane Horne, Head of Food Protection Science and Surveillance Branch at Food Standards Scotland added: “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. Collaborative efforts, like this study with Moredun Research Institute, are essential to ensuring safer food for everyone in Scotland.”
The full report is available here.
