Outcomes of Microbiological Challenges in Poultry Transport: A Mini Review of the Reasons for Effective Bacterial Control

• Published in: Microbiology research Vol. 15; no. 2; pp. 962 - 971
• Main Authors: Vinícius Machado dos Santos, Gabriel da Silva Oliveira, Cristiane Batista Salgado, Paula Gabriela da Silva Pires, Pedro Henrique Gomes de Sá Santos, McManus, Concepta
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Perugia MDPI AG 01.06.2024
• Subjects: Abattoirs; antibacterials; Bacteria; bacterial contamination; Bacterial infections; broilers; Campylobacter; E coli; Economic impact; Farms; Food safety; Hatcheries; Hygiene; Infections; Meat products; Microorganisms; Outdoor air quality; Poultry; poultry farming; poultry microbiology; Protozoa; Salmonella; slaughterhouse; Transport vehicles; Trucks; Vehicles; Brazil
• ISSN: 2036-7481; 2036-7481
• DOI: 10.3390/microbiolres15020063

This review aims to highlight the main microbiological challenges faced in poultry transport and show the role of effective bacterial control during this process to ensure poultry health and meat safety and to reduce economic losses. Poultry infections are among the most frequent infections in production systems, manifesting themselves in hatcheries, farms, slaughterhouses, and during transport between these integration centers. Although the clinical symptoms of these infections can range from mild to severe, many of them can lead to irreversible conditions, resulting in death and compromising productive results. Bacteria are the main causative agents of these infections, although fungi, viruses, and protozoa may also be involved. During the transport of poultry from farms to slaughterhouses, poultry are very vulnerable to infectious conditions. Therefore, implementing effective antibacterial management, focused on professionals, transport crates, and transport vehicles, is essential to guarantee the survival and quality of poultry until the moment of slaughter.