Occurrence of Campylobacter, Listeria monocytogenes, and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase Escherichia coli in slaughterhouses before and after cleaning and disinfection

To prevent foodborne illness, adequate cleaning and disinfection (C&D) is essential in slaughterhouses to remove pathogenic bacteria from the slaughter environment. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of C&D by investigating the survival of Campylobacter spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL E. coli) in slaughterhouses. Samples from food- and non-food contact surfaces taken before and after C&D in one red meat and one poultry slaughterhouse were analyzed for the target bacteria. Whole-genome sequencing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were performed.