Source attribution of foodborne ESBL-E. coli in Germany

During the last years a growing rate of antibiotic resistant bacteria could be observed in livestock animals. Especially concerning is the rising rate of Enterobacteriaceae which produce extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs). ESBL-producing bacteria can not only destroy penicillins but also cephalosporins of the 3rd and 4th generation. Since 2009, the BfR investigates the resistance rates of E. coli and Salmonella isolates from different food animal sources and found that broilers compared to other animals shows high resistance rates against 3rd generation cephalosporins like Cefotaxim (Figure 1). The joint research project RESET aims at investigating the origin and the transmission pathways along the food chain of ESBL-producing E. coli and the assessment of potential risks for humans. As part of a risk assessment framework for ESBLs we developed a concept for modeling and quantifying the exposure of the consumer with ESBL-producing E. coli via the broiler meat chain.