Detection and isolation of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli and microbial population counts on Argentinean Kosher beef for export to Israel

Abstract

The aim of this study was to provide data on the frequency of the Top 7 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and microbial population counts on processed beef from Argentinean Kosher cattle abattoirs authorized to export to Israel. A total of 480 samples (beef brisket, cuts, trimmings) were taken and analyzed for the Top 7 STEC detection and isolation and for mesophilic aerobic organism, coliform and E. coli enumeration. Differences in stx detection and microbial population counts on beef brisket samples before and after salting were not statistically significant (P > .05). All samples were negative for the Top 7 STEC. In the case of beef cuts, differences were significant for all microbial counts (P < .001). Neck samples showed a higher level of contamination in the three groups of microorganisms than shin and chest samples. The prevalence of stx was lower than that reported worldwide and in Argentinean export abattoirs. Salting did not significantly reduce the microbial load on beef brisket.