Scientists are beginning a nationwide bacteria-hunt to learn where chicken pathogens can get their start at the farm, so they can be stopped before reaching consumers.
The year-long study will sample farms in each of the nation's top poultry-producing areas - Arkansas, California, Georgia, Mississippi and the Delmarva peninsula. The scientists with the USDA's Agricultural Research Service, will focus on 10 broiler production farms.
On each farm, they will take samples from 25 places to find out which places are likely to transmit food pathogens. Feed bins, hatcheries and even farmers' boot soles will be sampled. DNA tests will distinguish the bacteria present in each of the 25 sample sites.
The scientists will piece together this information to determine which sites are top candidates for extra contamination control.
Use Your Browser to Return for Previous Page...Thank You.