Microbiological aspects of poultry processing

The microbiological condition of poultry carcasses is shown to be influenced by the general hygiene in the processing plant which is largely determined by (i) the quality of the raw materials, (ii) the design of plant and buildings, (iii) personal hygiene and (iv) cleaning efficiency. The standard of hygiene is dealt with under (i) assessment of contamination on surfaces, (ii) estimation of contamination on carcasses, including bacteria of public health significance and (iii) other measurements of value. Microbiological sampling of surfaces and carcasses is discussed and standards are suggested for water supplies, surfaces and carcasses. Data are presented from 430 frozen eviscerated carcasses sampled over the period of 12 months from a large processing plant.