ATP Bioluminescence As Means For Assessing Trailer Cleanliness

Feb 18, 2019

Proper washing and disinfection of swine transport trailers is an important step in maintaining biosecurity. This study examined the feasibility of using adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence as a rapid and effective swine

trailer cleanliness assessment tool. Samples were taken from newly-cleaned, dry trailers using an ATP swab by swabbing an area of 10 cm x 10 cm and were tested for microbial contamination level using an ATP bioluminescence

meter. The results obtained from ATP testing were compared to the co-located samples taken using standard microbiological techniques with MacConkey and R2A agar contact plates (diameter Ø = 60 mm). From a total of more than 500 samples collected from 16 commercial swine transport trailers across Saskatchewan, a significant correlation (r = 0.206; p=0.001) was found between ATP bioluminescence method and standard microbiological technique using R2A agar plates. Lower correlation (r = 0.154; p=0.002) was observed between ATP method and MacConkey agar plate counts. Unlike R2A that detects a wider group of bacteria, MacConkey agar supports only the growth of selected gram-negative bacteria while ATP bioluminescence detects ATP from both microbial and organic sources.

ATP Bioluminescence for Assessing Trailer Cleanliness (View pdf)

Source : Prairie Swine Centre

Video: Alternatives to Antibiotics - Dr. Luciana Rossi

In this special re-run episode of The Swine Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, we bring back our conversation with Dr. Luciana Rossi, Associate Professor at the University of Milan, who discusses alternatives to antibiotics in swine nutrition. She explores antimicrobial resistance, the role of functional ingredients, and the potential of biochar in improving gut health and sustainability. Tune in now on all major platforms!

"Biochar, a vegetable charcoal produced by pyrolysis, has shown potential in reducing diarrhea incidence and improving gut health in weaning piglets."

Meet the guest: Dr. Luciana Rossi https://www.linkedin.com/in/luciana-r... is an Associate Professor at the University of Milan, specializing in animal nutrition, biotechnology, and innovative feed strategies. Her work focuses on functional ingredients, edible vaccines, and alternatives to antimicrobials to improve swine health and sustainability. Her research advances nutritional solutions that reduce disease risk and environmental impact.