Prevalence and risk of staphylococcal and coliform carcass contamination of chickens slaughtered in the informal market in Gauteng, South Africa

Purpose The primary objective was to determine the prevalence of indicator microorganisms [Staphylococcus aureus, non-S. aureus staphylococci (NSAS), coliforms and aerobic bacteria] for contamination of chicken carcasses, carcass drip and rinse water from the informal chicken market in Gauteng, South Africa. Design/methodology/approach Chicken swabs, chicken drips and rinse waters were collected from 151 chickens from 47 random outlets. Pre-tested questionnaires were administered to capture the risk factors for bacterial contamination. Standard microbiological procedures were conducted for isolation and enumeration of target bacteria. Findings NSAS (64% and 41%) and S. aureus (12% and 31%) were prevalent on carcasses and in carcass drip respectively. Coliforms (62%) and aerobic bacteria (85%) were detected in rinse water. Significant risk factors for contamination of carcasses with NSAS, S. aureus and coliform organisms were: evisceration of chickens on the same location used for sale, cleaning of display counter with dirty clothes/wipes, holding of differently sourced chickens in the same cage prior to slaughter, not cleaning the display table/counter and hands at all, washing knives in rinse water, high turnover of daily slaughter and length of time to display chickens. Research limitations/implications The limitations of this research were the limited geographical coverage and small sample size. Practical implications The isolation of these indicator microorganisms suggests the potential presence of other chicken-borne pathogens not tested for in the study. Social implications The findings serve to inform policy on public health and street-vended food and can guide control on good sanitary practices. Originality/value This is the first comprehensive report on ready to eat chickens from the informal markets in Gauteng, South Africa.

Automated summary

The study aimed to determine the prevalence of indicator microorganisms on chicken carcasses, carcass drip and rinse water in informal markets in Gauteng, South Africa. NSAS and S. aureus were commonly found on carcasses and in carcass drip, while coliforms and aerobic bacteria were detected in rinse water. The findings highlight significant risk factors for contamination and implications for public health policies.