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The study proposes to examine slaughtered Bison to obtain data in relation to three major foodborne pathogens of human concern: Listeria, Salmonella and Escherichia coli/ E. coli O157:H7. The incidence and spread of these pathogens during the slaughter process and conversion of the carcasses to primals and other meat products will be examined.
The American bison (Bison bison) is a relatively new emerging meat species gaining increased popularity in U.S. and European gourmet markets. Bison are unique in that they are not subject to subtherapeutic growth promoting hormones or antimicrobials that are often used in the cattle industry. This suggests that their microbiological flora may not be exposed to the same selective pressures. Currently, there is little or no information regarding the microbiological safety of Bison destined for human consumption. <P> This study will be carried out in co-operation with the North American Bison Association Co-operative, New Rockford ND. The study proposes to examine slaughtered Bison to obtain data in relation to three major foodborne pathogens of human concern: Listeria, Salmonella and Escherichia coli/ E. coli O157:H7. The incidence and spread of these pathogens during the slaughter process and conversion of the carcasses to primals and other meat products will be examined. Foodborne pathogens isolated from the study will be examined to determine their antimicrobial resistance and for the presence of virulence factors, which contribute to their potential for causing human illness. <P> This investigation is a baseline study of an emerging meat species. As the market for Bison continues to expand, particularly in view of consumer concern regarding the safety of beef, the need for studies of the safety of Bison meat will become paramount. This study is the first proposed that will address issues in determining the safety of this unique product and will supply much needed data to the Bison industry and consumers as a whole.