Evaluating Salmonella Shedding in Backgrounded Calves Fed Broiler Litter

Abstract

The ability of ruminants to utilize nutrients present
in waste from other species provides an opportunity for
efficient use of waste and a cost-effective source of cattle
feed.¹ Processed broiler litter has been fed to beef cattle
in the U.S. for several decades.2 Recently, however, concerns
have been raised about litter as a potential source
of pathogens, including Salmonella species, that may be
spread from poultry to cattle and ultimately to consumers.^3,4,5 This project was designed to determine whether feeding broiler litter increases the prevalence of Salmonella shedding in backgrounded beef calves.