The European Food Safety Authority conducted a survey in 2005-2006 on the levels of Salmonella detected in broiler flocks across the EU. Results and findings, which show that Salmonella is present in nearly 1 in 4 flocks, have been published.
The survey, compiled by EFSA’s Zoonoses Task Force, estimated Salmonella to be present in almost 23.7% of broilers in the EU. An EU-wide reduction target has now been set by the European Commission for both Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium. These are responsible for most cases of salmonella-related food poisoning in humans.
The Task Force is advising that action be taken on a national level, as well as consumer education campaigns and strict implementation of EU food hygiene legislation to further increase consumer protection.