Prevalence of Escherichia coli in Eggs and Antibiotic Resistance


Şencal A., Aydın A.

Erciyes Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi Dergisi, vol.23, no.2, pp.72-80, 2026 (TRDizin)

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 23 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Journal Name: Erciyes Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi Dergisi
  • Journal Indexes: TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.72-80
  • Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Eggs are a highly nutritious food source, rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients. However, eggs can also pose public health risks through both vertical and horizontal transmission. Numerous studies in egg microbiology widely identify Escherichia coli as a common foodborne bacterium. E. coli is a pathogenic and zoonotic microorganism, and there are several serotypes of this microorganism that can cause serious symptoms. Due to the widespread consumption of eggs, antibiotics are often used in poultry production to prevent disease. This review discusses recent research on the prevalence of E. coli in various poultry eggs in different continents and countries, as well as antibiotic resistance profiles. Today, determining the prevalence of E. coli, particularly those with multidrug resistance, is considered a global threat. Monitoring their antibiotic resistance profiles is of great importance for protecting public health and ensuring sustainability.