New data on the prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) E. coli, Campylobacter, and Salmonella in chicken and turkey meat in the United Kingdom has been published. The study, conducted by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) under the Food Standards Agency (FSA), examined 306 raw chicken and 302 turkey meat samples collected from UK retailers between January and December 2022.

Key findings include a 12 percent prevalence of Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamases (ESBLs) and AmpC E. coli in both chicken and turkey meat, with no significant change compared to the 2020 survey. Colistin-resistant E. coli (Mcr-1) was detected in 1 percent of samples, mainly originating from imported meat. Campylobacter was prevalent in 48 percent of chicken samples and 5 percent of turkey samples, with some chicken samples showing high levels exceeding 1,000 colony-forming units per gram (CFU/g). Resistance to ciprofloxacin and tetracycline was observed in both chicken and turkey Campylobacter isolates.

Salmonella was found in six chicken and two turkey samples, without any isolates being ESBL- or carbapenemase-producers. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was observed in a Salmonella Agona isolate from a turkey breast.

Additionally, a separate survey revealed that four in five UK food handlers are aware of AMR, but their understanding varies. Approximately half of the participants claimed to have some knowledge about AMR, while over a quarter felt well-informed. The survey, conducted between June and July 2022 with 500 food handlers, highlighted potential gaps in knowledge among food handlers regarding practices that limit AMR spread. It also emphasized misconceptions, such as the belief that washing chicken before cooking can protect against AMR, signaling the need for increased awareness and education in this area.

Source: Food Safety News

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