12. Sweden Led Salmonella Control in Broilers: Which Countries Are Following?

Sweden was the first country to achieve control of Salmonella in the production of broilers. In 1994, the World Health Organization’s Veterinary Public Health Unit published a report summarizing the steps Sweden took, such as monitoring critical control points in production with Salmonella tests and depopulating flocks when tests were positive. This chapter explores the evolution of Sweden’s successful control strategy and the role of economic incentives embodied in strong regulations, in private insurance policies, and in consumer demand. Spread of the control in other Nordic countries is discussed. Swedish researchers estimate that Salmonella control costs 2.6 US cents per broiler or less than 1 cent per pound of meat. Comparisons are made to the US poultry industry, US Salmonella regulations, and the demand for Salmonella control by retailers. The economic externalities imposed on the US public by the current low level of Salmonella control in broilers are also explored. One externality, the societal cost of foodborne salmonellosis, is estimated at $5–$16 billion annually (Chap. 8). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that poultry, at 29%, is the largest cause of US Salmonella illnesses.