Molecular characterization of Toxoplasma gondii in pork meat from different production systems in the Czech Republic

• Toxoplasma gondii is widespread in pigs and wild boars bred in the Czech Republic.
• This study reveals that backyard-farmed pigs experience the highest exposure to T. gondii.
• The survey reveals the presence of genotype II only, which predominates in Europe.
• Consumption of wild boar meat could pose a risk to human health.
• Molecular methods would enhance the detection of T. gondii in meat.

Toxoplasmosis is a major public health issue, due to the presence of Toxoplasma gondii, mainly in pork. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of T. gondii in pigs and wild boars bred in different production systems in the Czech Republic using ELISA and qPCR methods. Our results show that T. gondii infection is widespread in pigs and wild boars bred and slaughtered in the Czech Republic and that there is a higher exposure to T. gondii in backyard slaughter operations and organic pig farming, indicating a potential risk for meat consumption. Additionally, genotyping of amplified loci for Type II suggests the presence of one clonal genotype circulating in these animals.