The UK Food Standards Agency have their first quarter results from a survey of Campylobacter on fresh shop-bought chickens. The results of 853 chickens show 59% of birds tested positive for the presence of Campylobacter. In 4% of samples Campylobacter was identified on the outside of the packaging.

Previous studies carried out into the prevalence of Campylobacter have also shown around two thirds of raw poultry carries Campylobacter. The 12-month survey, running from February 2014 to February 2015, is looking at the prevalence and levels of Campylobacter contamination on fresh whole chilled chickens and their packaging. The survey will test 4,000 samples of whole chickens bought from UK retail outlets and smaller independent stores and butchers.

To see the results tables  - www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/news/2014/aug/campylobacter-survey#.U-C49bkg-po