Researchers are harnessing a still-developing field of study, microgenomics, to limit pathogens in the pre-harvest stage of cattle, while common sense methods are still being used to protect poultry.

After a series of salmonellosis outbreaks linked to ground beef that occurred annually from 2011 to 2013, FSIS released a two-year Salmonella action plan that contained 10 objectives or activities, including: "Explore the contribution of lymph nodes to Salmonella contamination" and "Pre-harvest related activities."

Wider use of evidence-based food safety interventions on farms and feedlots would significantly reduce the risk of people getting sick from contaminated meat and poultry, according to a report released The Pew Charitable Trusts, Philadelphia.