Bacterial populations on eggshells cannot be reduced to safe levels without thorough cleaning. Whether intended for hatching or the table, it is essential to ensure the level of bacterial contamination on eggshells is reduced to the minimum to protect human health as well as that of the chick.
Because of the different systems used in production, the bacterial populations on hens’ eggs vary enormously. So-called ‘clean’ hatching eggs laid in nests have been reported in overseas enterprises with contamination levels of up to three million on each shell.
To safeguard the chick and the consumer, the most effective system possible must be employed to deal with this hazard.
Contamination of eggshells is derived from the hen and her environment. It includes poultry and human pathogens such as Pseudomonas, aerobic Bacilli, coliforms and Salmonella. It is vital that these organisms are removed from the surface of the egg as quickly as possible after laying.
The longer bacteria are left on the surface of the egg, the greater the chance of them penetrating the shell and polluting the contents.
This story is from the December 11, 2020 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 11, 2020 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Care of newborn lambs and goat kids
It may be a relatively simple task to successfully get rams to mate and for females to give birth, but the first couple of weeks of the life of a lamb or kid is a crucial period in livestock farming.
Don't ignore ChatGPT for one more day
If you are not using the free artificial intelligence app you’re missing out on assistance from the most potent personal assistant you could ever have.
Afternoon tea at the famous Mount Nelson
Brian Berkman says there’s not much to beat afternoon drinks and snacks served in the gardens at the newly refurbished Mount Nelson.
Starting a small-farm vegetable project: Part 4
Bill Kerr says that increasing the organic and microbe content of your soil is the first step to ensuring healthier crops and greater yields.
Luxurious and powerful workhorse at a great price
The new JAC T9 is certainly great value for money by offering features and driver comforts that compare with brands twice its retail price.
Are there solutions to antibiotic resistance, or are we running out of time to find new antibiotics?
Free State regional sales manager for Alltech, discusses how farmers can mitigate the use of antibiotics in cattle.
Dream stud Merinos
This stud was winning awards and attracting top prices, thanks to a quality sire imported from Australia eight years ago.
Choosing a breed that goes along with your lifestyle
Jarred Hodgson gives farmers advice on choosing the dog breed best suited to them, their families and operations. Although only four specific breeds are highlighted here, other breeds can also be considered.
Wheat production in South Africa
Master’s in Integrated Pest Management candidate at North-West University Zunel van Eeden explores the increasing importance of wheat production and the challenges experienced on the way to harvest time.
Sorghum essential for South Africa
Magda du Toit discusses Grain SA’s focus on sorghum as an important grain crop to cultivate, research and develop further in the country.