Sanitary analysis of compost derived from canine origin: pilot study

Resumen

Objective: To evaluate the sanitary quality of compost derived from canine origin through parasitological, bacteriological, biochemical, and molecular analyses, focusing on the detection of enteropathogens relevant to public health.

Design/methodology/approach: Samples of compost derived from canine origin underwent parasitological, bacteriological, biochemical, and molecular analyses to detect enteropathogens such as Escherichia coli (ETEC) and Salmonella spp. Additionally, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed for species-level identification.

Results: No parasite structures were found, and molecular tests for E. coli and Salmonella spp. were negative. However, colonies suggestive of Salmonella arizonae were isolated by the research team. Subsequent 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed homology with Citrobacter arsenatis, a recently described bacterium.

Limitations on study/implications: The study was limited to a single compost source and focused on a few bacterial pathogens reported in canines (Escherichia coli y Salmonella spp); broader microbiome analysis and pathogenicity assessments are recommended. The findings underline the need for rigorous characterization before the agricultural application of animal-origin compost.

Findings/conclusions: Compost derived from canine origin does not appear to pose a significant public health risk due to the presence of enteropathogens such as Escherichia coli (ETEC) and Salmonella, according to our analyses, although the pathogenicity of Citrobacter arsenatis is unknown. However, as it is compost derived from dog carcasses, it may contain opportunistic or pathogenic microorganisms of sanitary importance. Thus, its use is recommended for ornamental plants, lawn, trees.