Surveillance of Salmonella and antimicrobial resistance in industrial poultry enterprises: biofilm-forming strains and critical control points

Abstract

Introduction. Salmonella contamination in the poultry industry poses substantial health risks, especially due to biofilm-forming strains that resist disinfection and antibiotic treatment. Biofilm-forming Salmonella strains are particularly challenging to control, as they adhere to surfaces in production environments, leading to persistent contamination. This study assesses the prevalence of Salmonella, examines antibiotic resistance patterns and evaluates biosecurity effectiveness at poultry farms in Kazakhstan.Hypothesis/Gap Statement. There is limited data on the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of biofilm-forming Salmonella strains in Kazakhstan's poultry industry, highlighting a need to characterize these strains to inform effective control measures.Aim. The purpose of this study was to systematically identify and characterize Salmonella strains, including biofilm-forming types, within industrial poultry enterprises in Kazakhstan.Methodology. A total of 660 samples were collected from various poultry production sites, including feed, water sources, cloacal flushes and shoe covers. Salmonella detection followed standardized protocols, and antibiotic sensitivity of identified strains was analysed to evaluate resistance patterns.Results. Salmonella was detected in 11.5% (95% CI) of the 660 samples, with the highest contamination observed in shoe covers, cloacal flushes, feed and water. This prevalence rate indicates a significant presence of the pathogen in the country's poultry production chain, falling between the higher rates seen in countries like China (22.2%) and Egypt (29.1%) and the lower rates observed in countries like Brazil (3.4%). The most prevalent strain was Salmonella gallinarum-pullorum (61.8%), followed by Salmonella typhimurium (18.4%) and Salmonella enteritidis (14.5%). Antibiotic sensitivity analysis revealed that S. gallinarum-pullorum was largely susceptible to common antibiotics, while S. typhimurium displayed considerable resistance, emphasizing the need for alternative treatments.Conclusion. The findings underscore the importance of strict sanitary and hygiene standards throughout poultry production, with a particular focus on managing biofilm-forming Salmonella strains. Implementing comprehensive Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points protocols is essential to address contamination hotspots effectively. Future studies should investigate genetic mechanisms underlying biofilm formation and resistance in Salmonella strains to inform targeted interventions, ultimately improving food safety and public health outcomes.

Keywords: food safety; infection; pathogenicity; poultry farm; systematic observation.