Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Verification of good production practices that reduce the risk of exposure of pigs to Trichinella.
- Journal:
- Parasite (Paris, France)
- Year:
- 2001
- Authors:
- Gamble, H R et al.
- Affiliation:
- rgamble@nas.edu
Plain-English summary
Researchers have been looking into ways to reduce the risk of pigs getting infected with a parasite called Trichinella, which can be harmful to humans. Traditionally, this has been done by checking each pig after slaughter or by processing the meat to kill any parasites. However, with fewer cases of this parasite in pigs and better management practices on farms, there’s a chance to ensure pork is safe right from the production stage. The study involved an audit to check if farms were following good practices to lower the risk of exposure to Trichinella. Based on what they found, improvements were made, and more research will be done before starting a program to certify herds as safe from this parasite in the U.S.
Abstract
Control of Trichinella infection in swine has traditionally been accomplished by inspection of individual carcasses or by post-slaughter processing to inactivate parasites. Recent declines in prevalence of this parasite in domestic swine, coupled with improvements in swine management systems, offer the opportunity to document pork safety during the production phase. We report here on a certification pilot study using an audit to document good production practices for swine relative to the risk of exposure to trichinae. Based on the results, improvements in the program have been made and further studies will be undertaken prior to launching a voluntary trichinae herd certification program in the United States.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11484365/