Trypanosoma cruzi as a Foodborne Pathogen (PDF)

by
Belkisyole Alarcon de Noya, Oscar Noya Gonzalez, Lucy J. RobertsonBelkisyole Alarcon de Noya, Oscar Noya Gonzalez, Lucy J. Robertson

This Brief provides a comprehensive overview of Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite thatis traditionally considered as exclusively vectorborne, but can be foodborne, and may lead to outbreaksof Chagas disease in consumers. The characteristics of Trypanosoma cruzi and the clinicaleffects of the disease are covered, including documentedoutbreaks, regional patterns, andepidemiology.The various transmission routes are outlined,but with specific focus on foodborne transmission.A majoremphasis of this text is contamination offruit juices with Trypanosoma cruzi in, a transmission vehicle with increasing significance in the spread of this parasite. Also outlined is the difficulty of establishing a protocol for detection in food samples. Results on survival of Trypanosoma cruzi in food matrices is considered, as well as current risk assessment procedures and regulations. Different approaches to preventing transmission, including inactivation and decontamination are introduced, but also the importance of targeted educational initiatives, and also with a focus on future detection, prevention, andprevention of contamination of foods with this parasite.

Product Details