In 2016, E. coli was isolated from chickens on a new organic…
In 2016, E. coli was isolated from chickens on a new organic farm. The isolate contained a plasmid carrying resistance genes to six antibiotics including tetracycline, sulfonamide, and gentamicin. It also carried genes for resistance to heavy metals and a quaternary ammonium sulfate (Quat) disinfectant. The farm feeds the chicks GMO-free, organically raised grain and supplements the diet with zinc and copper to promote growth and reduce disease. No antibiotics are used. After three years of organic practice, in 2019 we would expect to find E. coli that are: