Keep watchful eye on Salmonella risk

Egg producers and pullet rearers are being asked to remain vigilant against the threat of salmonella in British layers.

The layer industry has been working to prevent the disease, but Elanco layer business manager Jeremy Marsh said it still was important for the industry to keep a watchful eye against food safety risks.

Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) and Salmonella Typhimurium remain the most common types in British layers. And with numbers still increasing, Mr Marsh said following Elanco’s recent Layer Conference.

Disease control

SE is known for its ability to vertically contaminate the egg as well as via the shell pre- or post-lay, before the cuticle hardens. This meant there was a need to protect the egg both internally and externally.

“To control the disease, it’s crucial vaccination programmes are as robust as possible and we’re not taking risks. Equally, from a biosecurity perspective, we need to ensure we’re not cutting corners and doing everything we can to minimise risks.”

The importance of biosecurity, and in particular rodent control, was alluded to in the presentation given by Gary Ford from the British Egg Industry Council. Stringent measures needed to be in place to control the disease, said Mr Marsh.

“As Gary highlighted, protecting eggs from Salmonella spans beyond optimising bird health and welfare. We need to keep the disease under control to maintain consumer confidence and trust in the UK egg industry.”

Production losses related to the disease can cost as much as £17 per bird. Recommending a three-pronged against Salmonella, Mr Marsh said it was important not to skimp on control and prevention.

“An effective vaccination strategy is key. It’s the first line of defence, but it’s not a silver bullet. Excellent biosecurity and hygiene alongside continuous monitoring and flock management is needed to bolster the success of a vaccination programme.”