Antimicrobial activity of poultry hatch baskets containing copper inserts

Commercial poultry hatcheries provide ideal conditions for the multiplication and spread of microorganisms. Formaldehyde is widely used as a disinfectant; however, it harmful to human health can cause abnormal morphology in chicks. An alternative microbiological control use copper, metallic antimicrobial agent contact surfaces. The efficacy copper surfaces has been established healthcare environments. However, its chain still limited. This study aimed compare activity common polypropylene hatch baskets with composed (polypropylene covered by baskets; solid plates on bottom; bottom). To simulate hatching environment high contamination, eggs cabinet were not fumigated. Microbiological analysis environmental, surface basket, fluff performed. results indicated that absence bottom holes resulted higher volume organic matter interfered copper's activity. presence did decrease microbial contamination under evaluated, confirming metal should only be complement standard hygiene substitute disinfectants. Further will evaluate ability nanoparticles remove biofilms formed bacteria isolated from environment.