The need of a one health approach to tackle microbiological contamination in animal and dairy production - the case of Portuguese feedlots farms and dairies

Résumé fourni par la source

With the global population rising, there is increasing demand for agricultural productivity, particularly for animal-derived proteins and products. This trend places additional pressure on natural resources and the workforce in the animal production sector. This study aims to address environmental and health factors influenced by animal production within the One Health framework, encompassing animal welfare, food security, food safety, worker´s health and climate change. In this context, three feedlots' farms and two dairies from the North of Portugal, representing the worst-case exposure scenario, were engaged in this study. Samples were collected using Electrostatic Dust Cloths (EDC) placed on farm surfaces and attached to work clothing (EDCT). Additional samples were obtained from feed, used bedding material, and surface swabs from feeders, drinkers, milking parlors, and frequently touched areas in social spaces (e.g., offices and changing rooms). Microbial characterization and azole-resistance screening were performed using diverse culture media, complemented by molecular assays (qPCR) targeting toxigenic fungal species. Thirty-eight mycotoxins were analyzed across the sampled matrices. This comprehensive approach identified critical sources of microbial and mycotoxin contamination: bedding material showed the highest bacterial contamination (TSA; 5.40 X 10 3 CFU.g-1), while swabs (MEA; 2.5 X 10 4 CFU.m-2 to 9.00 X 10 4 CFU.m-2) and feed (MEA; ranged from 1.33 X 10 2 CFU.g-1 to 8.00 X 10 2 CFU.g-1) exhibited the greatest fungal contamination. Feed was identified as the main source of mycotoxin exposure for both animals and workers, since all 16 feed samples tested positive for mycotoxin contamination. Results revealed widespread distribution of Aspergillus sp. across environmental matrices, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Azole-resistance screening and mycotoxin profiling further emphasize the importance of implement targeted interventions to prevent, monitor, and remediate environmental contamination by fungi and mycotoxins across different contexts (food safety, animal health, public and occupational health) underscoring the value of a One Health approach.

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