Enteric pathogen contamination

Finally, Part III also includes two reviews (Chapters 17 and 19) of the relative risks and novel strategies available to reduce mycotoxin and enteric pathogen contamination in organic crop production systems, for mycotoxin and fungal alkaloid contamination in organic and conventional production systems (Chapter 17) and for the microbiological safety of fruit and vegetables (Chapter 19). 

Strategies used to reduce enteric pathogen contamination of crops via irrigation water... 

Other chapters have been contributed by leading scientists and research groups in North America (see for example Chapters 10, 14 and 22 which focus on prevention of enteric pathogens, pesticide residues and prevention of GM-contamination, respectively). 

More recently, a range of other quality and safety issues have been recognised by consumers and now influence poultry meat and egg buying patterns and behaviour. Most importantly this includes (i) the routine use of antibiotics as growth promoters and curative medicines and the potential for development of transferable antibiotic resistance, (ii) risk associated with enteric pathogen (e.g. Salmonella and Campylobacter) and toxin (e.g. dioxin) contaminants of poultry products, (iii) the environmental impact of poultry production and (iv) the sensory and nutritional quality of eggs and poultry meat (Menzi et al., 1997 Hamm et al., 2002 Rodenburg et al., 2004 Horsted et al., 2005). 

In all cases, there is a significant hazard posed by contact of contaminated material with skin that has been cut or lacerated, or through injection of pathogens by contact with debris. Appropriate protection to avoid any potential abrasion, laceration, or puncture of the skin is essential. Individuals with damaged or open skin should not be allowed to enter the contaminated area. 

Enteric pathogens have to be introduced into the production chain at some point in order to contaminate fresh produce. Direct fecal contamination of vegetables just prior to consumption represents the greatest risk (Gorny, 2002 Mukherjee et al., 2007). However, other sources of contamination such as manure amended soil and irrigation water are more commonly encountered (Hutchison et al., 2008 Islam et al., 2004). 

The TCR, published by ERA in 1989, requires all public water systems to monitor for the presence of coliforms (measured as total coliforms ) in their distribution systems. Coliforms serve as indicators of many enteric pathogens, and are therefore useful in determining the vulnerability of a system to fecal contamination. In reviewing microbial risks with a federal advisory committee, ERA determined that the available data on distribution system risks warranted further analysis. Potential revisions being considered m lead to the establishment of requirements to address the quality of finished water in distribution systems (ERA, 2004d). 

---