Survival of <i>Escherichia coli</i> in Edible Land Snails: Implications for Heliciculture and Public Health.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Land snails are considered a delicacy in many countries in Europe and sub-Saharan Africa. However, the interaction of microbial pathogens with land snails may present a public health threat when handling and/or consuming snails. This study examines the survival of Escherichia coli in edible land snails in a model system.

Methods

Well-studied Shigatoxigenic (STEC) and non-STEC strains were compared. Mature Helix spp. were experimentally fed with E. coli-inoculated oats for 48 h. The snail feces after inoculation were periodically sampled and cultured for a 30-day period and subjected to microbiological analyses.

Results

The average rate of decline of the non-STEC strain CSH-62 in the feces of live snails was significantly (p < 0.0

SUBMITTER: Tanyitiku MN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10976252 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature