April 12, 2007

USDA approves bacteriophage application against salmonella
 

The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has approved the use of a bacteriophage product that attacks salmonella.

Developed by Utah-based OmniLytics, Inc., BacWash is applied as a mist, spray or wash on live animals before slaughter to cut down salmonella contamination levels on the animals' hides. This will occur before further processing.

The product can also be used to treat holding areas, transport vehicles, containers and living quarters.

Unlike general antibiotics, bacteriophage has the ability to discriminately target harmful bacteria without negatively affecting other beneficial microflora or fauna.