Phageguard S featured in large-scale Salmonella field study on poultry carcasses
Bacteriophage solution Phageguard S (PGS) demonstrated efficacy in reducing Salmonella contamination in a large-scale field study conducted in collaboration with Stellenbosch University and the South African Poultry Association (SAPA). The application of bacteriophages in an operational chicken processing plant highlights the efficiency of phage technology, which is already being utilized industrially in other countries, such as North America, to enhance Salmonella management systems in postharvest production.
Controlling Salmonella over 4 million chicken carcasses
Scale and Scope
The large-scale field study was conducted over a period of four weeks in a fully operational industrial poultry processing facility, which handles a throughput of approximately 150,000 chicken carcasses daily. This project resulted in the treatment of over 4 million chicken carcasses, making it one of the most extensive studies of its kind in the application of bacteriophage technology.
To thoroughly assess the impact of the treatment, researchers focused on critical contamination hotspots throughout the processing workflow. Samples were meticulously collected from whole carcasses, neck skins, and surface swabs at various stages—both before and after treatment. This approach ensured an evaluation of Salmonella presence and highlighted the effectiveness of Phageguard S.
Application technique
Phageguard S was applied using a validated spray system. Key parameters as well as the application methodology were carefully optimized to ensure even distribution across carcasses while preserving the viability of the phages. This calibration was secured consistent and reliable results across the facility's high-volume processing lines.
One of the study's notable achievements was demonstrating bacteriophage technology's ability to be integrated into existing industrial workflows. The spray system, tailored for the high-speed demands of poultry processing, ensured minimal operational disruptions while maintaining the efficiency and pace required in a live plant setting.
Trial results
The study delivered compelling evidence of Phageguard S's effectiveness in significantly reducing Salmonella contamination. Before treatment, an average of 82% of incoming carcasses tested positive for Salmonella. Post-treatment sampling yielded encouraging results: contamination rates on neck skins—the primary focus due to their susceptibility to harboring Salmonella—were reduced to 36%. Most impressively, swabs taken from final products showed a dramatic reduction in Salmonella presence, with only 2% testing positive. These results not only highlight the efficacy of Phageguard S but also demonstrate its ability to outperform traditional industry norms, setting a new benchmark for food safety in poultry processing.
Proven efficacy backed by Stellenbosch University and South African Poultry Association
The field study was led by Professor Pieter Gouws of Stellenbosch University’s Centre for Food Safety. Reflecting on the findings, Professor Gouws stated:
“This study proves that bacteriophages, when applied correctly, can significantly improve food safety without adverse effects on workers, consumers, or the environment. Combined with traditional methods like chlorine washes, phages offer a powerful tool against multidrug-resistant Salmonella.”
The results have also garnered support from the SAPA. Izaak Breitenbach, GM of SAPA’s Broiler Organization, highlighted the role of bacteriophages in reducing antimicrobial reliance:
“In South Africa's warm climate, where bacteria thrive, bacteriophages offer an effective, natural solution to enhance food safety. This aligns with the industry’s goal of moving away from antimicrobials.”
Achieving up to a 95% reduction in Salmonella on neck skins and maintaining near-zero contamination rates in final products, the industrial study further underscores Phageguard S its efficacy for controlling Salmonella in poultry processing.