Nontyphoidal Salmonella in Food from Latin America: A Systematic Review

Abstract

In Latin America, nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) is one of the most important etiological agents of foodborne infections; it can survive in soil, water, and food even after processing. Here, we aimed to perform a systematic review by collecting data on the prevalence, serotypes, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of NTS isolated from different food products in Latin America, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Out of 1766 studies screened, 244 reports from 13 Latin American countries were eligible. Among these, 182 reported NTS prevalence, 87 reported NTS serotypes, and 83 reported serotypes with AMR patterns. The NTS prevalence ranged from 0.005% to 93.3%, regardless of country and food. Meat showed the highest NTS prevalence. Enteritidis, Typhimurium, and Derby were the most frequently observed serotypes in different food products. The serotypes Enteritidis, Typhimurium, and Infantis, isolated from animal products, showed the highest AMR rate. The presence of NTS in fruits and vegetables, which are generally consumed raw or as ready-to-eat food, indicates a high risk of salmonellosis from consuming these foods. Thus, the reduction of this pathogen in the food chain requires a One Health approach, involving good agricultural and manufacturing practices, low antimicrobial use, and proper waste management.

Keywords: Latin America; Nontyphoidal Salmonella; food.