Tracing surrogate bacteria inoculated on hide through the beef slaughtering process

Abstract

Many countries have imposed regulations relating to concerns that hide contamination will affect the cleanliness of abattoirs. However, South Korea has not indicated any clear criteria. The purpose of this study is to use surrogate bacteria to measure the contamination in abattoirs caused by contaminated cattle hides. The swab contact method and plate count method are used. Surrogate bacteria are found in most internal environments after the final process. These surrogates remained on the carcass even after the final washing process. This paper is the first study in South Korea that use surrogate bacteria to analyze contamination levels in abattoirs.