A method for the reduction of gram-negative bacteria on de-feathered, pre-chilled birds includes preparing an alkaline mixture comprising sodium hydroxide and at least one other component. The method further includes combining the alkaline mixture with a waterline creating an alkaline solution. The method further includes testing the alkaline solution for pH values. The method further includes determining if pH value is between approximately 9 and approximately 14. The method further includes exposing a de-feathered, pre-chilled bird carcass to the alkaline solution if the alkaline solution is between approximately 9 and approximately 14. The method further includes repeating the steps of combining of the alkaline mixture with the waterline and testing the alkaline solution for pH values, and then exposing a de-feathered, pre-chilled bird carcass to the alkaline solution if the alkaline solution is between approximately 9 and approximately 14.
