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Biofilms of Salmonella: Implications for Food Safety and Public Health

Abstract:

Salmonella enterica is a leading cause of foodborne illness worldwide, responsible for an estimated 93.8 million cases and approximately 155, 000 deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization. This foodborne pathogen imposes a significant burden on public health and the global economy. A key factor contributing to the persistence and widespread impact of S. enterica is its potential to form biofilms, which may enhance its survival in clinical, industrial, and agricultural environments, making it a major and ongoing public health concern. Biofilms are structured microbial communities encapsulated in a self-produced extracellular matrix that protects against environmental stressors, disinfectants, and antimicrobial agents. This complex phenotype enables Salmonella to colonize food-contact surfaces, medical devices, and host tissues, hampering efforts to eliminate contamination and control transmission. The poultry industry, a key component of the global food supply, is particularly vulnerable to emerging Salmonella strains with increased virulence, stress tolerance, and disinfectant resistance, making biofilm control a top priority. This review aims to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of the mechanisms involved in Salmonella biofilm formation, its implications for food safety, and recent advances in detection and control strategies. Emerging technologies such as CRISPR-Cas systems are receiving particular attention due to their potential as precise molecular tools for investigating genes implicated in biofilm formation. By integrating current findings, this review underscores the urgent need for novel and effective strategies for biofilm control. It highlights the importance of a One Health approach that links human, animal, and environmental health to address the risks posed by Salmonella biofilms in the food production and public health sectors.