September 26, 2006

US researchers investigating vaccine to eliminate E. coli in cattle

Researchers at the University of Nebraska have developed an E.coli vaccine that they hope would eliminate cattle waste as a source of the bacteria that caused 175 people to be hospitalised and tonnes of spinach to be recalled nationwide during a recent outbreak.

Even though investigations are still on-going, cattle waste carrying the bacteria could have tainted irrigation water used to grow the spinach. While cattle can tolerate the bacteria, it causes severe illness in humans.

Epidemiologist David Smith says the vaccine developed reduces the number of animals with E. coli bacteria in their manure by 60 percent to 70 percent when coupled with other safety practices.

The research is funded by the USDA, the cattle industry, and the Ontario-based biotechnology company Bioniche Life Sciences Inc.

President and CEO Graeme McRae of Bioniche says the company has invested about US$15 million in research and development, and would spend at least US$50 million more on marketing.

But Animal Science Professor Terry Klopfenstein, a member of the Nebraska research team, says selling the vaccine may be a challenge as producers may not see the economic benefits since it would neither enhance the taste nor make the cattle grow faster.

Still, the vaccine would benefit producers by making beef safer, thus helping to boost public confidence in the industry.

Researchers expect to finish their current trial this fall, and would complete their analysis by the end of the year. The company is hoping to see the vaccine approved for use in North American cattle next year.