Detection of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL) at Different Processing Stages in Three Broiler Abattoirs.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) identified extended-spectrum β-lactamase/AmpC β-lactamase (ESBL/AmpC)-producing as one of the main priority hazards for poultry. Different studies detected ESBL-producing at broiler fattening farms and in abattoirs, concluding that poultry meat is a potential source of human infection. Broiler breast skin samples taken in three abattoirs with different scalding techniques were examined for ESBL-producing (.) and their phylogenetic groups. A total of 307 ESBL-producing isolates were found, and the abattoir with conventional immersion scalding with thermal treatment of the water had the lowest incidence. Phylogroups D/E and B1 were mostly detected, while phylogroups C, D, and E were not detected. Phylogroup B2 was detected in low proportions. The phylogroups B2 and D are important as they have been associated with urinary tract infections in humans, but were only detected in low proportions at different processing stages in this study. Since the risk for the consumer of being infected via chicken meat with ESBL-producing and of highly pathogenic phylogroups cannot be excluded, good kitchen hygiene is of great importance.