Biosecurity remains a significant challenge in livestock production. Studies have shown visual inspection may be insufficient to ensure cleanliness and reduce disease transmission risk because viruses and bacteria are microscopic.
The article shares a study where bioluminescence was used to determine if adenosine triphosphate bioluminescence could be used as an indicator of trailer cleanliness as a substitute for visual inspection.
Note the cleanliness variances in different areas of trailers such as the back door flush gate, rear driver’s side access door, the belly flush gate, belly side access door and nose side access door.
Source: National Hog Farmer, November 24, 2023. Link.
Also see: Why do we keep getting it wrong when it comes to biosecurity? National Hog Farmer, August 29, 2023. Link.
. . . when we talk about biosecurity, we often talk about the same items over and over again . . . and we don’t always look at the bigger picture. . . “