New Spray Could Reduce Disease In Poultry
US - A special spray developed by researchers at the University of Arkansas in conjunction with scientists with Safe Foods Corp. in Rogers, could help eliminate worries about E. coli, salmonella, listeria and other poisonous bacteria.
"Cecure," which is intended to fight food-borne illnesses in meat processing plants, is ready for industrial use after five years of research.
Officials with the company said that after 1,000 attempts and $7 million, they think they have the product ready for distribution.
In its current form, the product is intended only for use on poultry.
Officials said the spray is used on raw chicken for two seconds, which allows the product to kill harmful bacteria.
They said the active ingredient in the product is the same as what has been used in bacteria-killing mouthwashes for more than 50 years. They also said that the spray doesn't alter the taste of food.
Safe Foods'chief executive said the product will soon be developed for use beyond the poultry industry.
"We are aggressively pursuing beef ... right behind that pork, seafood, and then fruits and vegetables and ready to eat," said Curtis Coleman.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Cecure for use on poultry.
Safe Foods officials said consumers could see Cecure-treated poultry in stores within the next two months.
Officials are not yet sure if a label denoting the use of the product will be required for Cecure-treated poultry products. They said the labeling decision will be left to regulatory authorities and the legal system.
Source: eFeedLink - 4th March 2004