The primary objective of this project is to generate baseline data on the significant microbiological pathogens and hygiene indicator organisms present in beef mince on retail sale to the consumer in Scotland. A secondary objective is to analyse any patterns of variation (e.g. seasonal or geographical) to identify any risk factors associated with microbial contamination. Thirdly, the presence and significance of Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) should be determined in any pathogens and a subset of 100 isolates of generic E. coli found.

This will be done by undertaking a comprehensive survey of microbiological pathogens and hygiene indicator organisms in beef mince at retail across a range of geographic locations in Scotland over the course of 1 year. This should include surveying different premises (e.g. butchers, supermarkets), geographical locations and product ranges (e.g. value, premium) in order to represent what Scottish consumers are currently purchasing.

The aim of this project is to address the key evidence gap in relation to the microbiological risk of Scottish beef mince at retail level to contribute to the delivery of FSS’s strategy aimed at reducing the incidence of foodborne illness in Scotland.

To assist in achieving this aim, the Contractor shall:

a. carry out sampling of fresh minced beef on retail sale over a 1 year period across a range of geographical locations in Scotland. Sampling should be designed so that it is representative of what Scottish consumers are buying and eating;

b. analyse the samples for the following foodborne pathogens and hygiene indicator organisms:

i) STEC (including E. coli O157 and non-O157s);

ii) Campylobacter;

iii) Salmonella;

iv) Generic E. coli;

v) Anaerobic colony counts (ACCs);

c. samples that are found to contain pathogenic microorganisms (campylobacter, salmonella and STEC) will be sequenced by whole genome sequencing (WGS);

d. all pathogens analysed by WGS will be screened for AMR genes;

e. 100 generic E. coli isolated and all the STEC, campylobacter and salmonella isolates will also be tested for antimicrobial resistance by disk diffusion (or an alternative appropriate method);

f. sample results will be analysed statistically to determine the prevalence and levels of AMR for each of the organisms tested.

The Contractor is required to analyse any patterns in the variation of microorganisms present (e.g. seasonal or regional) or any indications of risk factors that influence the microbiological quality of mince on retail sale in Scotland. This will be achieved by ensuring sampling is undertaken over a full 12 month period and across a range of product ranges and geographical locations in Scotland. The result of this analysis will also be included within the full report.