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Prevalence and risk factors of fasciolosis and indigestible foreign bodies in cattle slaughtered at Uvinza slaughter slab, western Tanzania
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A study of 436 cattle slaughtered at a Tanzanian facility found liver disease from parasites in 14.7% of animals and swallowed foreign objects, mostly plastic bags and clothing, in 4.4%. Cattle in poor body condition had higher odds of the parasite infection, while object swallowing was not linked to any specific factor.
Fasciolosis and indigestible foreign bodies (IFBs) are important causes of organ damage, condemnation and reduced carcass quality in Tanzanian slaughter facilities, highlighting persistent challenges in livestock health management, pasture hygiene, and waste management. These conditions pose significant food safety and environmental risks. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Uvinza Slaughter Slab from 1st March to 30th September, 2025 to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for fasciolosis and IFBs. Postmortem examination of cattle assessed liver pathology and forestomach contents. Data on animal biodata, grazing system, source, presence and type of IFBs, anatomical location, and reasons for liver rejection were collected. Descriptive statistics, and logistic regression analyses were performed using R software. All slaughtered cattle (n=436) during the study period were examined. The overall prevalence of fasciolosis was 14.7% (95% Confidence interval (CI): 11.5-18.3). The prevalence of IFBs was 4.4% (95% CI: 2.8-7.0), with plastic bags and clothing materials being the most frequently encountered. Cattle with good Odds ratios (OR) = 0.17; 95% CI: 0.05-0.55; p < 0.001) and moderate (OR = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.20-0.82; p = 0.01) body condition score had significantly lower odds of fasciolosis compared to those with poor body condition. No significant predictors were identified for IFBs, suggesting that their occurrence is primarily driven by environmental factors. Fasciolosis and IFBs remain the major causes of organ damage, condemnation, economic loss, and food safety risks in Uvinza. The IFBs reflect the growing environmental pollution and inadequate waste management. Strengthened community engagement, participatory programs and extension systems on deworming and waste management under a One Health framework are essential for effective control.
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