12.12.2024

Suarez et al. (2024) J Food Prot. 2024 Dec 9:100431

A new study published in the Journal of Food Protection addresses concerns about the contamination of dairy products with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses. Avian influenza poses risks to both animals and humans, so understanding its presence in food is crucial for food safety and public health. The study investigates the prevalence of HPAI in various dairy items sold in retail markets to assess the risk of transmission through these products. The authors conducted a comprehensive analysis of samples from retail cheese, butter, ice cream, and other dairy products to detect the presence of HPAI viruses. They used advanced molecular techniques, including quantitative real-time RT-PCR, to identify any viral RNA that could indicate contamination. The findings showed a low overall prevalence of HPAI in the tested dairy products, but the detection of viral RNA in some samples highlights the need for ongoing surveillance and monitoring of food products to mitigate potential risks. The viral RNA from highly pathogenic avian influenza was sequenced and found to be closely related to recent outbreaks in cattle. Confirmatory testing did not find any live virus in any sample, confirming the effectiveness of pasteurization.
The study concludes that rigorous testing and monitoring of dairy products for HPAI are important due to the virus's potential impact on food safety and public health.