E. coli Prevention Starting With Cattle: Research Report
Stopping E. coli at one of its most common sources–the digestive systems of cattle–is the subject of new E. coli prevention research from the University of Idaho.
The potentially life-threatening bacteria, E. coli O157:H7, colonize in cattle’s gastrointestinal tracts and can live there because the bacteria is harmful to humans but not cattle. Fecal matter from the environments in which the cattle are raised can spread and contaminate meat during the slaughtering process, and/or contaminate surrounding water supplies and groundwater that can lead to contamination of produce growing in the surrounding areas.
Researchers, however, are gaining insight into how E coli bacteria grow and survive inside cattle. The University of Idaho study shows that E. coli O157:H7 bacteria have chemical signals that allow it to sense their environment and activate certain genes in the cattle that help the bacteria colonize in cattle’s guts. And the ability to disrupt that signal could hold the key to preventing the life-threatening pathogen from growing inside the cattle, researchers say. This could potentially be done through feed additives that would block the transmission of that chemical signal.
E. coli Prevention: What you can do
Although research is an important component of E. coli poisoning prevention, the truth is that E. coli bacteria can still be found in foods, beverages and water sources. According to food safety attorney Fred Pritzker:
“Preventive measures by the meat industry may reduce the number of cattle that carry E. coli and the frequency of contamination of meat during processing. But since research into such prevention measures is just beginning, it is important that you understand the steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.”
E. coli Prevention
- Cook meat thoroughly
- Keep a clean kitchen
- Drink pasteurized beverages
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
- Wash your hands
Tags: Cattle E coli, E. coli Prevention
