The objective of the focus action was the microbiological testing of chicken and turkey meat for contamination with Campylobacter and Salmonella and the collection of data for the veterinary drug group NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) in turkey meat.

136 samples from all over Austria were examined. Six samples were objected to:

• two samples of turkey meat because of Salmonella
• four samples of chicken meat because of Campylobacter.

NSAIDs were not detectable in any sample.

Campylobacter and Salmonella are the most common food-borne pathogens in humans in Central Europe. They are mostly transmitted to humans via inadequately heated animal foods or through contamination due to inadequate kitchen hygiene (zoonoses). In order to obtain an up-to-date set of data, both raw chickens and raw turkeys should be tested for the presence of Campylobacter and Salmonella in this priority action. NSAIDs are a group of anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic but also antirheumatic drugs. Well-known substances from this group, which are also used in humans, include diclofenac and meloxicam. Some of these substances are approved for use in farm animals, but not for poultry. The action should verify whether NSAIDs are used in fattening turkeys.