Quaternary Ammonium Compounds and Sodium Hypochlorite for the Control of Bacterial Contamination on Hatching Eggshells: A Review

Sanitization constitutes a pillar of modern bacterial control in the management of hatching eggs. When improperly performed, eggshell contamination may increase, thereby increasing embryo susceptibility to bacterial pathogens and negatively affecting their viability and development. Sanitizing agents based on quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) and sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) have been considered potential treatments to mitigate bacterial problems in poultry production. Therefore, this review aims to analyze the antibacterial potential of QACs and NaClO as sanitizers for bacterial control on hatching eggshells. In summary, both evaluated compounds proved effective in reducing bacterial contamination on eggshell surfaces, as evidenced by the significant antibacterial activity observed. However, their use should be rational, respecting the specific characteristics and recommendations of each compound, and guided by manufacturers’ guidelines and scientific evidence.