NIFA-funded researchers at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) studied factors that affect antibiotic resistance and virulence of Salmonella during poultry processing. Their analysis showed that the chilling process can lead to Salmonella contamination and cross-contamination among poultry carcasses but has no effect on the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant genes. This knowledge will be used to develop tools to help poultry inspectors improve Salmonella detection, helping to improve food safety and prevent future food recalls.

NIFA originally published this impact in the NIFA 2016 Annual Report. Want to read about more impacts like this? Check out Fresh from the Field, a weekly bulletin showcasing transformative impacts made by grantees funded by NIFA.