Microbial Ecology of Human Pathogens Relative to Poultry Processing

1. Using population genetics, track bacterial migration and adaptation of foodborne pathogens through poultry processing and the associated environment. Evaluate the variations and influence of genetic and strain diversity from animal through the processing plant. Sub-Objective A: Enhance research on foodborne pathogens, through poultry processing evaluating the strain diversity from animal through the processing plant. 2. Examine the role of protozoa and other potential biological populations in the microbial ecology of foodborne pathogens through poultry processing. 3. Evaluate the potential for protozoa and other biological controls to be used as intervention or mitigation strategies for human pathogens in poultry processing and processing facilities. 4. Based on objectives 1-3, develop and evaluate physical and chemical intervention strategies to reduce contamination by foodborne pathogens of poultry products.