Evaluation of powdered disinfectants to reduce bacterial contamination of footwear

Footwear is a known route for spreading microorganisms to farms and between poultry houses. While disinfectant foot pans are commonly used, liquid products lose efficacy when organic matter such as feces or litter is present. This study evaluated powdered peracetic acid, sodium percarbonate, quaternary ammonium compound, and bleach disinfectants for their ability to reduce bacteria on contaminated boot molds under heavy organic loads. Each product was evaluated individually by inoculating concrete boot molds in plastic boot covers with layer manure and tested a short versus long contact time. Microbial loads of total aerobes, Staphylococci , and coliforms were enumerated after treatment. Results indicated that all four products reduced microbial loads compared to rinsing only, suggesting successful use even with short contact times. Efficacy of the sodium percarbonate and quaternary ammonium compounds were more time dependent, while the peracetic acid and bleach products were less so. Powdered disinfectants offer a viable alternative to liquid foot pans, but product selection may need to be tailored to meet individual farm needs.