Source: MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIV submitted to
DETERMINING THE DYNAMIC INTERACTIONS BETWEEN PATHOGENS AND CHICKENS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES TO REDUCE PATHOGENS ON THE FARM: PRE-HARVEST FOOD SAFETY
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
HATCH
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0217527
Grant No.
(N/A)
Cumulative Award Amt.
(N/A)
Proposal No.
(N/A)
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Jul 27, 2008
Project End Date
Jul 26, 2013
Grant Year
(N/A)
Program Code
[(N/A)]- (N/A)
Project Director
Kiess, A.
Recipient Organization
MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIV
(N/A)
MISSISSIPPI STATE,MS 39762
Performing Department
Poultry Science
Non Technical Summary
Each year in America approximately 76 million people become sick due to a food borne illness. Out of the 76 million cases, 325,000 result in hospitalization and 5000 are fatal (WHO, 2007). The financial burden that the former have placed on the United States is staggering. It is estimated that illnesses caused by contaminated food cost the United States approximately 44 billion annually, due not only to medical costs but also losses in productivity (Trust for Americans Health, 2008). Campylobacter jejuni is recognized by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention as the leading cause of food borne illness in the United States and it is closely followed by Salmonella (CDC, 2008a; CDC, 2008b). Poultry has been found to be a major reservoir for both Campylobacter and Salmonella (Oyofo et al., 1989; Gast et al., 1997). This is a concern for government officials as well as to the poultry industry, since poultry consumption has continued to increase over the past several years. In 2006, the ERS released statistical data that demonstrated that the consumption of poultry doubled between 1970 and 2004, 27.4 lbs to 59.2 lbs per capita respectively. In 2007, a public opinion poll conducted by the Trust for America¿s Health indicated that over 67% of Americans are concerned about food safety (TFAH, 2008). Although the Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) enforces Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulatory guidelines on poultry processing facilities (USDA, FSIS, 2008) it may not be enough. There has been discussion among government officials for the development of HACCP-type regulations for the farm. To effectively reduce pathogens on the farm, it is essential to first gain a knowledge base so that pre-existing levels of pathogens in poultry facilities can be better understood and managed. This makes an epidemiological survey of utmost importance, so that pre-existing pathogen levels in a commercial facility can be taken into consideration. Strategies to reduce on farm levels of Campylobacter and Salmonella can be addressed in several different ways. One area that is controversial, but needs further investigation, is the role vertical transmission has on flock contamination. If this method of transmission can be confirmed, steps toward preventing it can be studied. Another area of investigation will focus on improving the quality of litter on which young birds are placed. To investigate this, new techniques are needed that disrupt the optimum environmental conditions required for pathogens to multiply while maintaining the integrity of the litter for future flocks. Also, there is potential in the development of vaccines that could target specific pathogens and prevent colonization in the birds. The projects proposed in this CRIS will not only address the current levels of Campylobacter and Salmonella contamination in modern poultry farms, but also provide information to farmers on potential strategies that they may use to decrease that level of contamination.
Animal Health Component
(N/A)
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
(N/A)
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
3113220104030%
3113220110070%
Knowledge Area
311 - Animal Diseases;

Subject Of Investigation
3220 - Meat-type chicken, live animal;

Field Of Science
1040 - Molecular biology; 1100 - Bacteriology;
Goals / Objectives
It is recognized that Campylobacter jejuni and Salmonella are two pathogens commonly found in commercially reared poultry and they are both associated with food borne illness in humans (Oyofo et al., 1989; Mulder, 1995; Gast, 1997; Shane, 1997). Due to these facts, government officials are currently discussing whether or not Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) type programs need to be implemented on the farm, like those already in place for post-harvest facilities (USDA, FSIS, 2008). The proposed regulations by the Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) would target the site where primary microbial infection of poultry occurs, to potentially reduce the microbial load entering the processing facility. Thus, scientific based research must be conducted to determine what regulations would be most effective on the farm. Dr. Merle Pierson, the Acting under Secretary for Food Safety in 2005 stated, "The Office of Food Safety has used science-based policies to effectively protect the health and well being of millions of consumers worldwide". Dr. Pierson also states in his speech that although implemented regulations have driven down Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes prevalence rates, there is still important work ahead in addressing Campylobacter. Therefore, the goal of the following research projects will be focused towards understanding the interactions Campylobacter and Salmonella have with poultry in an attempt to develop strategies that will reduce their presence on the farm. The goals of this CRIS will ultimately be obtained through a series of 4 projects. The objective of the first project will be to obtain information on the level of Campylobacter and Salmonella harbored in modern commercial poultry facilities during grow out. The results will be collected through on farm surveys and will be used as a model to establish areas of focus for future research efforts. The objective of the second project will be to investigate the effectiveness of different composting practices on litter in an attempt to reduce the levels of Campylobacter and Salmonella. The objective for the third project will be to investigate the potential of vertical transmission as a route of colonization in young poultry flocks by using bioluminescent phenotypes of Campylobacter and Salmonella. The fourth project will investigate whether or not vaccines can be developed and effectively used to prevent colonization of poultry flocks by Campylobacter and Salmonella. The projects outlined in this CRIS proposal will provide results for the poultry industry that will allow them to identify sources of contamination on the farm and implement safety practices to correct them. It will also provide new data and strategies for government officials to use in making critical decisions concerning regulatory interventions focused on reducing the prevalence rates of pathogens on the farm. Most importantly, the largest impact of this research will be taking steps to ensure the safety of consumers and maintain the excellent reputation already held by the poultry industry.
Project Methods
The first study includes the development of a pathogen map for Campylobacter and Salmonella. This map will help establish the number of samples needed to be collected for the survey. After the preliminary data has been analyzed, other variables important to the survey will be identified and the survey will begin. Samples will include environmental and historical data as well as microbiological samples. These results will provide scientists with a pathogen map, a model for calculating the level of contamination, as well as method for identifying patterns of pathogens proliferation. The second study will use, used litter from the MSU commercial broiler houses that has been decaked and split into 16 plots. Each plot will be randomly assigned one of four treatments. Treatments include: a negative control (not windrowed), a positive control (windrowed), litter contains 25% moisture and windrowed, and litter that contains 30% moisture and windrowed. The house will pasteurize for 8 days. Samples will be collected 4 times; before decaking, two days after breakdown, the day chicks arrive, and seven days after placement. On sample days litter will be analyzed for Campylobacter, Salmonella, total aerobes, total anaerobes, coliforms, pH, temperature, moisture, carbon/nitrogen ratio, and ammonia flux. To evaluate whether pasteurization has an effect on production, 16 pens with 25 chicks per pen will be grown for 42 days. Data will include initial body weight, final body weight, carcass yield, feed consumption, feed conversion, mortality, breast yield and foot pad scores. The results from these experiments will help identify sources of disease, provide new management strategies, increase production and reduce the potential for horizontal transmission. The goal the third study will be to collect reproductive organs from breeding roosters and breeding hens to evaluate the attachment properties of luminescent bacteria as well as the bacteria's ability to survive in that type of environment. After the in vitro experiments, in vivo experiments will follow. Roosters and hens at breeding age will be artificially inseminated with contaminated semen. Over specific time periods, hens will be euthanized and the reproductive tracts will be removed and observed to determine the migration of bacteria. Eventually contaminated eggs will be hatched and the offspring will be sampled for the luminescent bacteria. The results from these experiments have potential to provide information confirming or denying vertical transmission. In the fourth study male and female broiler chickens from a commercial broiler flock will be selected for carrying high or low levels of Campylobacter. Those individual birds will be subjected to brachial vein puncture and proteins from the blood will be separated using 2-D gel electrophoresis. Over expressed proteins will be excised from the gel and sent to the Life Science and Biotechnology Institute for sequencing. The results from this experiment may provide scientists with the identity of unique proteins that can be used in future research projects to develop vaccines against Campylobacter.

Progress 07/27/08 to 07/26/13

Outputs
Target Audience: This project is intended to target poultry scientists and the poultry industry by developing Pre-harvest food safety management strategies on the farm. The outcomes from this project will provide a safer product being produced by the poultry industry to the consumer. The material was disseminated to the audience by presenting data at national and international scientific meetings, peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals, and through direct communication with individuals associated with the poultry industry. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Nothing Reported How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The results from this body of work has been disseminated to the poultry community through several invited lectures, abstract presentations and scientific journals. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The safety of our nation’s food supply is of growing interest to the public. Mainly due to the fact of food borne outbreaks and the coverage they receive by the media outlets. The poultry industry is a sector of animal agriculture that depends on sound bio-security and safety practices to ensure the products they supply to the public are safe. Even though several practices that ensure the safety of poultry products are implemented, it has been suggested that they may not be enough to reduce outbreaks. Therefore, focus has been placed on identifying areas on the farm that could be used to further reduce the incidence of pathogenic organisms on the final product. Over the pastfive years my lab has evaluated potential horizontal and vertical sources as well as tried to evaluate practices that would reduce the overall microbial levels in poultry litter. Through the efforts of my laboratory9 peer-reviewed journal articles have been published and 12 abstracts have been presented at national and international meetings. The research projects have included the evaluation of media and methods for isolating Campylobacter in poultry litter as well as a one year survey on a newly constructed broiler farm.Additional projectshave included the evaluation or pathogenic and beneficial bacteria effects on breeder fertility and evaluating the effect management strategies like litter windrowing and litter amendments have on total bacterial reduction in the poultry litter. Overall the results of this research has provided the poultry industry with valuable knowledge which can now be expanded to develop preventative management strategies to reduce the level of pathogens that may effect their broiler flocks and potential make it to the final processed product.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2010 Citation: Kiess, A.S.*, H.M. Parker, and C.D. McDaniel, 2010. Evaluation of Different Selective Media and Culturing Techniques for the Quantification of Campylobacter ssp. from Broiler Litter. Poult. Sci. 89: 1755-1762.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2010 Citation: Barker, K.J., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, H.M. Parker, M. T. Kidd, C. D. McDaniel, and A. S. Kiess*. 2010. Distribution of Bacteria at Different Poultry Broiler Litter Depths. Intl. J. Poultry Sci. 9: 10-13
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Haines, M.D., K.N. Eberle, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess*. 2011. Evaluating different Gas Delivery Systems that Create a Microaerophilic Environment for Culturing Campylobacter jejuni. Poult. Sci. 90: 2378-2382.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Eberle, K.N. and A.S. Kiess*. 2012. Phenotypic and Genotypic Methods for Typing Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli in Poultry. Poult. Sci 91: 255-264.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Everett, D.L., Y. Vizzier Thaxton, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess*. 2013. The Impact of Peat Moss on the Microbial Load in Used Pine Shavings Poultry Litter. Intl. J. Poultry Sci. 12: 202-205.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Barker, K.J., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, H.M. Parker, M.T. Kidd, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess*. 2013. In House Composting of a Commercial Broiler Farm during early Spring and its Affects on Litter Composition. J. Appl. Poultry Res. 22: 551-558.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Eberle, K.N., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, H.M. Parker, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess*. 2013. Evaluating the Prevalence and Distribution of Campylobacter in Newly Constructed Broiler Houses. Intl. J. Poultry Sci. 12: 29-36.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Haines. M.D., H. M. Parker, C. D. McDaniel, and A. S. Kiess*. 2013. Impact of Six Different Intestinal Bacteria on Broiler Breeder Sperm Motility in vitro. Poult. Sci. 92: 2174-2181.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Barker, K.J., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, H.M. Parker, M.T. Kidd, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess*. 2011. In House Composting of a Commercial Broiler Farm during Summer Months and its Affects on Litter Composition. J. Appl. Poultry Res. 20: 168-180.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2009 Citation: Kiess, A.S., H.M. Parker, C.D. McDaniel, and J.C. Hamby. 2009. Evaluating different plate media for culturing and quantifying Campylobacter ssp. in broiler litter. Poult. Sci. 88, (suppl. 1): 74
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2009 Citation: Barker, K.J., M.T. Kidd, J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, C.D. Coufal, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2009. Evaluating the effects of in-house composting on litter in commercial broiler houses. Poult. Sci. 88, (suppl. 1): 158
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2009 Citation: Barker, K.J., H.M. Parker, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2009. Spatial distribution of microorganisms as it relates to poultry litter depth. Poult. Sci. 88, (suppl. 1): 86
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2010 Citation: Haines, M.D., K.N. Eberle, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2010. Evaluating different gas delivery methods that create a microaerophilic environment for culturing Campylobacter jejuni. Poult. Sci. 89, (suppl. 1): 616.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2010 Citation: Eberle, K.N., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2010. Evaluating the prevalence and distribution of Campylobacter in newly constructed broiler houses. Poult. Sci. 89, (suppl. 1): 472.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Everett. D.L., Y. Vizzier-Thaxton, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2011. The Impact of Peat Moss Amendments on the Microbial Load in Used Pine Shavings Poultry Litter. Poult. Sci. 90: (E-Suppl.1): 117.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Everett, D.L., C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2011. The Microbial Differences Between Male vs. Female Broiler Litter Environments. Poult. Sci. 90: (E-Suppl.1): 23.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Haines, M. D., H. M. Parker, C. D. McDaniel, and A. S. Kiess. 2012. Impact of Six Different Intestinal Bacteria on Broiler Breeder Sperm Motility in vitro. Poult. Sci. 91 (E-Suppl. 1): 195.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Everett, D.E., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2012. The Effect Different Poultry Litter Amendments have on Live Production, Carcass Characteristics, and Environmental Parameters. Poult. Sci. 91: (E-Suppl. 1): 55.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Haines. M.D., H. M. Parker, C. D. McDaniel, and A. S. Kiess. 2012. Effects of Adding Different Concentrations of Lactobacillus to Semen on Hen Fertility. Poult. Sci. 91: (E-Suppl. 1): 51.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Silva, R.A., M.D. Haines, H. M. Parker, C. D. McDaniel, and A. S. Kiess. 2013. Lactobacillus in Semen Alters Fertility, Hatchability, and Chick Performance. Poult. Sci. 92: (E-Suppl. 1): 236.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Haines, M.D., H.M. Parker, C.D. McDaniel and A.S. Kiess. 2013. Influence of Six Different Intestinal Bacteria on Turkey Sperm Motility in vitro. Poult. Sci. 92: (E-Suppl. 1): 84.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2010 Citation: Prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni in Newly Constructed Broiler Houses: A One Year Survey.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Bacteria and Their Effects on Fertility in the Chicken.


Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: The safety of our nation's food supply is of growing interest to the public. Mainly due to the fact of food borne outbreaks and the coverage they receive by the media outlets. The poultry industry is a sector of animal agriculture that depends on sound bio-security and safety practices to ensure the products they supply to the public are safe. Even though several practices that ensure the safety of poultry products are implemented, it has been suggested that they may not be enough to reduce outbreaks. Therefore, focus has been placed on identifying areas on the farm that could be used to further reduce the incidence of pathogenic organisms on the final product. Over the past year our laboratory has been conducting experiments that focus on identifying best practices that reduce overall microbial levels in poultry litter as well as trying to identify the initial source of broiler contamination. The first experiment evaluated the effect multiple litter amendments had on litter quality and pathogenic growth on used litter. The second experiment evaluated the effect pathogenic bacteria have on sperm motility demonstrating a potential pathway by which broiler are becoming initially colonized. The information from these studies are being used to support future research projects as well as provide valuable information to broiler producers so they can implement management strategies to reduce microbial loads on their farms. The data from these studies are being disseminated through presentations at scientific meetings, peer reviewed publications as well as through direct contact with broiler producers. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Aaron S. Kiess-PI, Dr. Chris D. McDaniel-Professor, Dr. Holly M. Parker-Research Associate III, Dr. Jeremiah D. Davis-Assistant Professor, Dr. Joseph L. Purswell-Agricultural Engineer, Derrick L. Everett- Graduate Student, Melissa D. Haines-Graduate Student TARGET AUDIENCES: This project is intended to target poultry scientists and the poultry industry by developing Pre-harvest food safety management strategies on the farm. The outcomes from this project will provide a safer product being produced by the poultry industry to the consumer. The material was disseminated to the audience by presenting the data at scientific meetings, peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals and through direct communication with broiler producers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
In 2012, 2 studies were conducted that evaluated methods to reduce bacterial loads in poultry litter and a potential source for initial colonization of broilers. The first study, compared multiple litter amendments (PLT, Sphagnum peat, and a competitive exclusion product) and their impact on bacterial loads, pH and ammonia production of the litter. Production characteristics were also examined to determine the effects the litter amendments may have on them. The results indicated that carcass characteristics were not affected by any of the litter amendments tested (P≤0.05). A day by treatment interaction (P=0.0001) was detected for litter pH. The PLT amendment was determined to have the lowest ph (3.3) at d 0, but by day 40 all treatment pens had a ph that averaged 8.5. For bacteria, no significant differences were detected for Campylobacter and E. Coli. A treatment by day interaction (P=0.008) was detected for clostridium with the competitive exclusion product. Clostridium levels were reduced from 2.89 log CFU/g on day 28 to 1.86 log CFU/g on day 40. In conclusion, all litter amendments were able to maintain carcass characteristics but PLT and the competitive exclusion treatments may have an advantage for farms that have high pH litter or an issue with Clostridium. The second project evaluated the effect 6 different intestinal bacteria (4 pathogens and 2 non-pathogens) have on sperm motility. The results indicated that all broths containing bacteria immediately reduced sperm motility when compared to the controls (P < 0.0001). Broths containing the non-pathogenic bacteria (Bifidobacter animalis and Lactobacillus acidophilus) completely and immediately shut down sperm motility. Although, broth containing Salmonella enteric immediately reduced sperm motility the reduction did not change over time. On the other hand, broths containing Campylobacter jejuni, Clostridium bifermentans, and Escherchia coli reduced sperm motility immediately, but as time passed the motility continued to decrease (P = 0.0043, 0.0001, and 0.0002), respectively. In conclusion, bacteria are capable of reducing the motility of broiler breeder sperm. Although, motility is reduced by the pathogenic bacteria it is not eliminated suggesting that sperm may provide a mode of transportation for pathogens located in the cloaca of the hen.

Publications

  • Everett, D.E., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2012. The Effect Different Poultry Litter Amendments have on Live Production, Carcass Characteristics, and Environmental Parameters. Poult. Sci. 91: (E-Suppl. 1): 55.
  • Haines, M. D., H. M. Parker, C. D. McDaniel, and A. S. Kiess. 2012. Impact of Six Different Intestinal Bacteria on Broiler Breeder Sperm Motility in vitro. Poult. Sci. 91 (E-Suppl. 1): 195.


Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Over the past several years great interest has been placed on the safety of our nation's food supply. This has been due to food borne outbreaks which have occurred across the United States in a variety of different food products. The broiler industry is a sector of animal agriculture that relies heavily on sound food safety practices which ensure the products they supply to the public are safe for consumption. It has recently been suggested that the precautions taken in the processing plants may not be enough to prevent a food borne outbreak therefore, it has been recommended that food safety regulations be implemented on the farm. Over the past year our laboratory has been conducting experiments that focus on identifying best practices that reduce overall microbial levels in poultry litter and on the farm. The experiments have evaluated multiple litter amendments for their ability to reduce microbial populations as well as improve the overall quality of litter. Our laboratory has also conducted experiments that evaluated the contribution male, female and straight run broilers have on the overall bacterial populations found in poultry litter. The information from these studies are being used to support future research projects as well as provide valuable information to broiler producers so they can implement management strategies to reduce microbial loads on their farms. The data from these studies are being disseminated through presentations at scientific meetings, peer reviewed publications as well as through direct contact with broiler producers. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Aaron S. Kiess-PI, Dr. Chris D. McDaniel-Professor, Dr. Holly M. Parker-Research Associate III, Dr. Jeremiah D. Davis-Assistant Professor, Dr. Joseph L. Purswell-Agricultural Engineer, Dr. Yvonne Vizzier Thaxton-Professor, Derrick L. Everett- Graduate Student, Kelsey J. Barker-Graduate Student, Melissa D. Haines-Graduate Student TARGET AUDIENCES: This project is intended to target poultry scientists and the poultry industry by developing Pre-harvest food safety management strategies on the farm. The outcomes from this project will provide a safer product being produced by the poultry industry to the consumer. The material was disseminated to the audience by presenting the data at scientific meetings, peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals and through direct communication with broiler producers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
In 2011, 3 studies were conducted that evaluated how potential methods for reducing bacterial loads in poultry litter. The first study, Sphagnum peat was investigated for its ability to be used as a litter amendment. Peat moss a chemical free substance is naturally acidic and possesses a high absorptive capacity. This experiment evaluated treatments that contained 0%, 13% or 20% peat moss. Broilers (42 d of age) were grown in 18 pens containing the appropriate treatment for 3 wks (6 pens/3 treatment). Litter samples were analyzed for aerobic bacteria, coliforms, and yeast/molds. The results indicated that there were no differences between treatments for total aerobic bacterial counts. There was an initial increase in coliforms for the peat most treatments but they were reduced by the second week compared to controls. A decrease in the number of yeast and molds were observed for peat moss treatments when compared to the control treatment. In conclusion peat moss was found to reduce coliforms and yeast/molds in poultry litter but future research is still needed to determine if it will be an effective litter amendment. The second project evaluated the impact gender had on the total contribution of bacteria to poultry litter. In this study male, female, and straight run broilers were raised in separate pens to compare the amount of bacteria, yeast and mold deposited on the litter. The results indicated no microbial or yeast/mold differences in litter environments between the different broiler sexes. In conclusion, raising straight-run broilers can provide broiler producers with a litter environment that is just as safe as a litter environment where male or female broilers are raised separately. The third study compared multiple litter amendments (PLT, Sphagnum peat, and a competitive exclusion product) to determine if they reduced bacterial loads, ammonia, and pH of litter or affected overall carcass characteristics of the birds. The results of this study are indicated that carcass characteristics were not affected by any of the litter amendments tested (P≤0.05). A day by treatment interaction (P=0.0001) was detected for litter pH. The PLT amendment was determined to have the lowest ph (3.3) at d 0, but by day 40 all treatment pens had a ph that averaged 8.5. For bacteria, no significant differences were determined for Campylobacter and Escherichia Coli for any of the litter amendments tested. There was a treatment by day interaction (P=0.008) for clostridium with the competitive exclusion product. Clostridium was reduced from 2.89 log CFU/g on day 28 to 1.86 log CFU/g on day 40. In conclusion, all litter amendments were able to maintain carcass characteristics but PLT and the competitive exclusion treatments may have an advantage for farms that have high pH litter or an issue with Clostridium. This research has potential to influence the decisions made by our government officials on food safety regulations on the poultry farms. It also demonstrates the management strategies already in place by the poultry industry, without the involvement of the government, to ensure that the products being sold are safe to the public.

Publications

  • Barker, K.J., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, H.M. Parker, M.T. Kidd, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2011. In House Composting of a Commercial Broiler Farm during Summer Months and its Affects on Litter Composition. J. Appl. Poultry Res. 20: 168-180.
  • Everett, D.L., C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2011. The Microbial Differences Between Male vs. Female Broiler Litter Environments. Poult. Sci. 90: (E-Suppl.1): 23.
  • Everett. D.L., Y. Vizzier-Thaxton, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2011. The Impact of Peat Moss Amendments on the Microbial Load in Used Pine Shavings Poultry Litter. Poult. Sci. 90: (E-Suppl.1): 117.


Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: The safety of our nations food supply has been a topic of debate due to recent outbreaks in number of different area's. The broiler industry is a sector of animal agriculture that relies on sound food safety practices to ensure the products presented to the public are safe for consumption. It has been suggested that even more needs to be done, which will require implementation of food safety regulations on the farm. To provide bench mark data on the levels of Campylobacter in broiler litter, our lab has investigated different methods for creating a microaerophilic environment for detecting Campylobacter harbored in litter as well as determining the concentration of Campylobacter in litter. The information from these studies are being used to support future research projects as well as provide valuable information to broiler producers so they can implement management strategies to reduce Campylobacter on their farms. The data from these studies are being disseminated through presentations at scientific meetings, peer reviewed publications as well as through direct contact with broiler producers. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Aaron S. Kiess-PI, Dr. Chris D. McDaniel-Professor, Dr. Holly M. Parker-Research Associate III, Dr. Jeremiah D. Davis-Assistant Professor, Dr. Joseph L. Purswell-Agricultural Engineer, Kelsey J. Barker- Graduate Student, Krista N. Eberle-Graduate Student, Melissa D. Haines-Graduate Student TARGET AUDIENCES: This project is intended to target poultry scientists and the poultry industry by developing Pre-harvest food safety management strategies on the farm. The outcomes from this project will provide a safer product being produced by the poultry industry to the consumer. The material was disseminated to the audience by presenting the data at scientific meetings, peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals and through direct communication with broiler producers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
The results from the projects conducted in 2010 have indicated indicated that no difference in colony counts existed on plates that were grown in microaerophilic environments created either by the Anoxomat system, Campy EZ Gas Pak system or by using Ziplock bags. Colonies on plates which had the gas delivered by the Campy EZ Gas Pak method were much smaller in size than colonies on plates that had the gas delivered by the other 2 methods. In conclusion, all 3 gas delivery methods were able to produce similar Campylobacter results between experimental runs. Additionally, the smaller colonies from the EZ Gas-Pak method could be a result of our media choice or the anaerobic chamber used. It is important to consider these issues when deciding on the appropriate microaerophilic gas delivery method to use for culturing Campylobacter. For the project that evaluated the level of Campylobacter in broiler litter. Out of 2300 litter, 900 fecal, and 45 water samples, only 5, 6 and 1 of the collected samples respectively were confirmed Campylobacter positive. Litter moisture was different depending on location: the middle contained a higher moisture level (37%) than the evaporative cooling inlets (33%) and tunnel ventilation fans (34%) (P<0.05). Litter pH was not different for day, location or flock. Temperature and humidity averaged 26.8 degree C and 69.3% inside and 27.6 degree C and 60.6% outside. In conclusion the results did not show a high prevalence of Campylobacter. Litter moisture and humidity were at levels conducive for Campylobacter growth. The high litter pH and low temperatures, along with other on-farm management strategies, may have suppressed Campylobacter's ability to colonize the litter. It is important for the Poultry Industry to continue their strong food safety efforts and ensure that their products are safe for public consumption. As government officials decide whether or not to extend food safety regulations to the farm, it is important for scientists to provide these officials with information that has been determined though, sounc scientific investigation. The research conducted in this laboratory has the impact to influence the decisions made by our government officials on food safety regulations in the poultry industry. It also showcases the management strategies that have already been put in place by the broiler producers and poultry industry without the involvement of the government, to ensure that the products being sold are safe to the public.

Publications

  • Eberle, K.N., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2010. Evaluating the prevalence and distribution of Campylobacter in newly constructed broiler houses. Poult. Sci. 89, (suppl. 1): 472.
  • Haines, M.D., K.N. Eberle, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2010. Evaluating different gas delivery methods that create a microaerophilic environment for culturing Campylobacter jejuni. Poult. Sci. 89, (suppl. 1): 616.
  • Barker, K.J., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, H.M. Parker, M. T. Kidd, C. D. McDaniel, and A. S. Kiess. 2010. Distribution of Bacteria at Different Poultry Broiler Litter Depths. Intl. J. Poultry Sci. 9: 10-13.
  • Kiess, A.S., H.M. Parker, and C.D. McDaniel, 2010. Evaluation of Different Selective Media and Culturing Techniques for the Quantification of Campylobacter ssp. from Broiler Litter. Poult. Sci. 89: 1755-1762.


Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: The safety of our nations food supply has been a topic of debate due to recent outbreaks in beef, leafy greens, and peanut products. The poultry industry is an area of animal agriculture that depends heavily on food safety regulation to prevent food born outbreaks from their products. Broiler, management at the farm is thought to be an area where safety can be increased. Our laboratory has been investigating ways in which broiler producers can manage their litter more effectively to prevent colonization of their flocks by pathogenic organisms. Currently 3 projects have been completed that evaluate methods to either manage or detect the microbial populations associated with broiler litter. The first experiment evaluated the distribution of microorganisms throughout different depths of the litter bed. The objective of this project was to determine if pathogens deep within the litter bed could potential be moved to the surface where they have potential to cause a disease outbreak. The second project evaluated different methods of windrowing commercial broiler houses during the summer and winter seasons. The objective of this project was to identify the most effective and efficient method of windrowing that reduced the largest amount of bacteria at different times of the year. This would provide broiler producers with new information that allowed them to manage their litter more effectively and potential reduce the opportunity for a disease outbreak within their flock. The third experiment evaluated different media and enrichment techniques for isolating Campylobacter from broiler litter samples. The objective of this project was to determine the best media for isolating Campylobacter from broiler litter and to determine if enriching the sample provided a higher level of detection. The information from this project will then be used in future investigations that evaluates how young broiler flocks become colonized by Campylobacter. All of these projects are focused on preharvest food safety and trying to find out how broiler producers can better manage their farms to reduce the potential for food born outbreaks. This information is being disseminated through presentations at scientific meetings, peer reviewed publication as well as through direct contact with broiler producers. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Aaron S. Kiess-PI, Dr. Chris D. McDaniel-Professor, Dr. Holly M. Parker-Research Associate III, Dr. Jeremiah D. Davis-Assistant Professor, Dr. Joesph L. Purswell-Agricultural Engineer, Kelsey J. Barker-Graduate Student TARGET AUDIENCES: This project is intended to target poultry scientists and the poultry industry by developing Pre-harvest food safety management strategies on the farm that help reduce or eliminate pathogenic microorganisms. The outcomes from this project will provide a safer product being produced by the poultry industry to the consumer. The material was disseminated to the audience by presenting data at scientific meetings, peer reviewed publications in scientific journals and direct communication with broiler producers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
The results from the projects conducted in 2009 have indicated that the amount of bacteria harbored within the middle and bottom layer of the litter bed are less than that located in the top layer. Therefore when producers windrow and mix the different layers of the litter bed the possiblity of pathogenic bacteria being re-introduced to the surface is small as well as the potential for a disease outbreak. It was also determined that windrowing litter is an effective method for reducing the amount of bacteria locate in used litter. The most effective and efficient windrowing method was a simple windrow which was allowed to set for a period of 8 days without being disturbed. Although the application of water, turning the pile at 4 days, and covering the windrow with a non-breathable tarp were warrented methods to investigate. It turned out that the addition of water did not lead to higher internal temperatures, turning the litter prevented the windrow from returning to a lethal temperature, and caused the litter to become clumped due to excess moisture which the litter to be decaked. These outcomes were not an efficient use of the producers time or resources so they not considered as a legitimate method for windrowing in a commerical broiler house. The results of the project which evaluated different media and enrichment techniques for isolating Campylobacter from broiler litter, indicated that Campylobacter Agar Plates (CAP) was the most effective medium for isolating Campylobacter out of the 5 media tested. Campy-Cefex the media promoted by the United States Department of Agriculture as the media to use when isolating Campylobacter from poultry samples was determined to be an effective medium but it did not provide the discrimintive power that CAP medium did. As for the ability of Campylobacter enrichment broth to enumerate Campylobacter, it was determined through our results to be an ineffective method. Since our study only evaluated Campylobacter enrichment broth, we can not state that other enrichment broths would not provide more favorable results. It is most important for the Poultry Industry to continue their strong food safety efforts and ensure that their products are safe for public consumption. As government officials decide whether or not to extend food safety regulation to the farm, it is important for scientists to provide these officials with information that has been determined through sound scientific investigation. The research conducted in this laboratory has the impact to influence the decisions made by our government officials on food safety regulations in the poultry industry. It also showcases the management strategies that have already been put in place by the broiler producers and poultry industry without the involvement of the government, to ensure that the products being presented to the public are safe.

Publications

  • Barker, K.J., J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, H.M. Parker, M. T. Kidd, C. D. McDaniel, and A. S. Kiess. 2010. Distribution of Bacteria at Different Poultry Broiler Litter Depths. Intl. J. Poultry Sci. Accepted Vol. 9; No. (1) pp. 10-13.
  • Kiess, A.S., H.M. Parker, C.D. McDaniel, and J.C. Hamby. 2009. Evaluating different plate media for culturing and quantifying Campylobacter ssp. in broiler litter. Poult. Sci. Vol. 88, (Suppl. 1): 74
  • Barker, K.J., H.M. Parker, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2009. Spatial distribution of microorganisms as it relates to poultry litter depth. Poult. Sci. Vol. 88 (Suppl. 1): 86
  • Barker, K.J., M.T. Kidd, J.L. Purswell, J.D. Davis, C.D. Coufal, C.D. McDaniel, and A.S. Kiess. 2009. Evaluating the effects of in- house composting on litter in commercial broiler houses. Poult. Sci. Vol. 88, (Suppl. 1): 158