How can it be controlled?
A HACCP approach is essential for the effective control of Salmonella in food production and it should start on the farm. Many countries have policies that encourage measures to reduce the levels of Salmonella in egg production units, in poultry houses, during the growing of fresh produce and also during transport of raw commodities. Such measures are especially important for products that will not be cooked prior to consumption. Food manufacturers should take care to source their ingredients from producers implementing effective controls, or purchase pasteurized products (such as milk or egg) to reduce the risk of Salmonella contamination.
For food processors
Salmonella can be effectively controlled by relatively mild heat treatments, but it is essential that adequate measures are in place to avoid cross contamination between raw and cooked foods. HACCP should be used to identify and implement adequate controls for Salmonella (ensuring the organism is absent) in all foods that will be supplied to the consumer as ready-to-eat. General good hygiene procedures and effective temperature controls are also very important.
For retailers and consumers
To ensure that ready-to-eat foods remain free from Salmonella, careful handling and storage of product should be encouraged at the retail stage and in the consumer’s home. Avoidance of cross contamination is particularly important in this respect. Careful labeling for raw products is important too, especially when they appear cooked. Raw chicken entrées have caused illness in the USA because they were not clearly labeled as such. Consumers should also be advised to wash fresh produce, such as bagged lettuce, even when it appears ready prepared.
High risk foods include raw or partly cooked egg products, such as home made mayonnaise and ice cream, undercooked meat, unpasteurised dairy products, unpasteurised fruit juices and raw or lightly cooked seed sprouts.