Quantifying the uncertainty of transfer of Cronobacter spp. between fomites and floors and touch points in dairy processing plants. (December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lindsay, D.; Laing, S.; Fouhy, K.I.; Souhoka, L.; Beaven, A.K.; Soboleva, T.K.; Malakar, P.K.
• Is Part Of: Food microbiology. Volume 84(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-12
• Subjects: Cronobacter spp. -- Transfer -- Dairy; Food Microbiology -- Periodicals; Aliments -- Microbiologie -- Périodiques; Food -- Microbiology; Periodicals; Food -- Microbiology -- Periodicals; Food contamination -- Periodicals; 664.001579
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2019.103256
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0740-0020

Abstract

Abstract: Cronobacter spp. are opportunistic pathogens that must be controlled in infant powder manufacturing plants. This study evaluated the spread of Cronobacter cells via contact surfaces within a dairy manufacturing environment. Transfer rates of Cronobacter spp. were determined from vectors for transmission including moveable fomites (e.g. trolley wheels and boots) and gloved hands to various types of recipient surfaces (stainless steel, linoleum and resin-coated concrete) typical for dairy manufacturing environments. Overall, with a starting inoculum of 10 6 CFU/mL, approximately 10 4 CFU/mL Cronobacter cells were transferred from each fomite onto each recipient surface during the initial transfer event. Gloved hands transferred the highest number of Cronobacter cells, followed by polyvinylchloride boots and then polyurethane trolley wheels. We demonstrate, using a combination of experimental data and uncertainty analysis, that if a movable fomite (boots or trolley wheels), or gloves became contaminated, Cronobacter could be spread over a wide area within a manufacturing plant. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first quantitative estimation of the spread of Cronobacter within a dairy manufacturing plant, that can also be practically applied as a tool for providing information in making risk management decisions. In particular, the estimation of spread suggests areas for cleaning and sanitation within a dairy manufacturing environment during a contamination event. Highlights: Quantitative estimation of the probability of spread of Cronobacter. Cronobacter could be spread over a wide area within a manufacturing plant. Practical tool for information in making risk management decisions.