Public Health Significance of Verocytotoxigenic Escherichia coli: An Overview

Meat is a global vital protein source catering to diverse diets. By 2050, world’s population may rise to 9 billion and the demand for meat will exceed supply, necessitating a doubling of meat production. Nutritionally rich composition makes meat, a fertile ground for numerous microbes, leading to spoilage and foodborne illnesses, impacting human health. External factors like poor hygiene, inadequate post-production storage, mishandling and more contribute to meat contamination. The zoonotic strains of E. coli can cause severe food poisoning, with over 700 identified serotypes, hence it is crucial to identify, monitor and control E. coli to ensure food safety. Among E. coli pathotypes, Verocytotoxigenic E. coli (VTEC) stands out as major cause of food poisoning. The VTEC toxin (Shiga toxin), can induce mild diarrhea to severe form of illness like Hemorrhagic Uremic Syndrome and Hemorrhagic Colitis, posing a severe public health risk. The Cattle is a primary reservoir for VTEC, which, by faecal shedding, can pollute food, water and the environment. Furthermore, E. coli can spread through contaminated meat, raw milk and milk products. This bacterium is commonly found in the immediate surroundings of animal reservoir, including soil, grass and manure, leading to potential contamination of milk. E. coli infections not only impact humans but also animals, with cattle, sheep and poultry acting as reservoirs for different E. coli strains. Cattle populations frequently harbor E. coli O157:H7 asymptomatic carriers, contributing to faecal contamination of food and water sources. Educating the public about the risks associated with improper meat handling and contamination is essential to reduce foodborne illnesses. Monitoring and surveillance of meat quality in local markets, as are crucial steps towards ensuring food safety. This underscores the importance of understanding and managing E. coli contamination in meat to safeguard public health and ensure the safety of meat products in the global food supply chain.