ARTICLE 52 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE September 2025 Feed represents a key critical control point for Salmonella and other pathogens that compromise both food safety and production performance. As diagnostic capabilities advance through whole genome sequencing and CRISPR Sero-Seq technology, the question shifts from whether feed can harbor dangerous serotypes, to which interventions can effectively control them while preventing recontamination. FEED CONTAMINATION DYNAMICS Research analyzing multiple intervention strategies confirms that feed contamination with Salmonella is both pervasive and persistent (Bourassa et al, 2018; Chaney et al, 2022; Vilá et al, 2009). Historical data mapping Salmonella prevalence through feed mills shows contamination levels beginning at 27% during ingredient reception, decreasing to 6.5% immediately post-pelleting, then nearly doubling to 12.9% before loadout (Nape 1968; Hacking 1978; Jones 1991, 2004; Davies 1997; Whyte 2003). This recontamination pattern demonstrates that effective pathogen control must address both initial elimination and sustained protection throughout distribution. Research has demonstrated that Salmonella serotypes isolated during poultry processing link to those found in feed mills, with studies showing over half of processing plant isolates trace back to feed sources (Corry 2002; Shirota 2000), reinforcing the need for comprehensive feed pathogen management strategies. TREATMENT EFFICACY: THE EVIDENCE BASE Microbial-Based Approaches Microbial-based interventions operate through distinct mechanisms. Probiotics establish competitive exclusion by colonizing gut niches and producing antimicrobial compounds that create unfavorable conditions for pathogen growth. Studies have shown that probiotic interventions demonstrate measurable effectiveness against Salmonella. For example, Knap et al (2011) documented Feed pathogen control is a critical control point for Salmonella and other pathogens that compromise both food safety and production performance. Research analyzing multiple intervention strategies confirms feed contamination is both pervasive and persistent. Microbial-based interventions, postbiotics, bacteriophages, organic acid blends, heat treatment, and coarse grain diets demonstrate measurable effectiveness, while feed sanitizers provide both initial pathogen elimination and sustained recontamination protection. FEED PATHOGEN CONTROL: Evidence-Based Approaches to Salmonella Reduction in Poultry Production Dr. Alastair Thomas Global Head of Poultry Nutrition & Health Anitox
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