Summary

High initial microbial loads on whole birds at end of processing can lead to higher initial counts on portions. This initial microbial load as well as temperature is a key driver of the shelf life of product. Repeat National surveys of whole birds have recorded a total viable count (TVC) from 6.32±0.83 in 2008 to 5.93±0.85 in 2023. There has been little overall improvement in TVC although the industry works hard to continually improve in-plant hygiene. There is potential to improve TVC either on whole birds or portions which impact overall shelf life by lowering initial microbial load. We propose research that will evaluate the effectiveness of the Electrostatic Spraying Technology currently in use in parts of the USA poultry industry.

Program

Chicken Meat

Research Organisation

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)

Objective Summary

The project will assess the use of Electrostatic Spraying System (ESS) for reducing microbial loads:

Assess the performance of electrostatic spraying (ESS) to reduce total microbial loads initially on whole birds