Is more work needed to study compost? It does not appear to be a problem, but the number of samples is small.
The objective was not to comprehensively assess compost as a source of STEC, but rather to evaluate the potential for pathogen movement from compost to adjacent areas via environmental pathways (e.g., air, water, or wildlife). Given the limited sample size, additional targeted studies would be needed to more fully evaluate compost as a potential risk factor.
What did you find in the compost samples?
A total of 237 compost samples were collected. Among treated compost, 1 of 57 samples tested positive for STEC. Among untreated compost, 3 of 178 samples were positive, including 2 that were positive for E. coli O157.
What type of composting was being performed at the composting facility?
Windrow composting.