Peters S †, Thomas ME*, van der Meer R#
† Faculty of Veterinary
Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
* Department of Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
# Amersfoort Zoo, Amersfoort, The Netherlands
The role of animal feed in the spread of microbial hazards is very important. At zoos, the presence of microbial agents in animal feed can lead to illness or carriership in animals as well as in humans. We designed and implemented a system, derived of the principles of Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points (HACCP) to increase animal feed safety at Amersfoort Zoo. To be able to judge the current situation, we assessed the various kitchen set-ups by use of a questionnaire. Environmental samples were taken for microbial evaluation of kitchen hygiene, and also, feed samples were collected during preparation of animal feeds. Personnel of Amersfoort Zoo were trained in hygiene matters during work meetings and presentations. Working instructions were designed and handed out to cover all feed related subjects such as purchase, storage, preparation, distribution, washing-up, waste disposal and personal hygiene. As a result some steps in feed preparation were altered. The new situation was evaluated by the taking of feed samples. Despite the limited number of samples, bacterial growth appeared to be decreased. We expect bacterial growth to decrease even more if additional measures are taken. Our results and the working instructions could be used as a starting point for a zoo (kitchen) hygiene code.
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