The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of Salmonella spp in whole broiler carcasses and multiple-organ samples collected at a commercial retail point in the western area of the city of São Paulo and to conduct a critical analysis of the traditional culture media growth technique and polymerase chain reaction PCR. A total of 63 whole broiler carcasses and a 63 multiple-organ samples were collected between November 2006 and May 2007. The conventional technique revealed the presence of Salmonella in 6/63 whole carcasses and in 5/63 multiple-organ samples, PCR detected Salmonella in 28/63 whole carcasses and in 20/63 multiple-organ samples The following strains were identified in the whole carcasses S. Senftenberg; S. Kentucky; S. Enteritidis; S. Montevideo; S. Infantis, S. enterica subsp enterica (0: 6.7). S. Enteritidis; S. enterica subsp enterica; S. Infantis were identified in multiple organ samples. The (18/21) Salmonella strains identified in this study were resistant to the antimicrobial agents tested in this study. In conclusion, the traditional method is essential for the collection of strains for different study purposes; for the observance of the Brazilian legislation, which is based on microbiological standards that were established using traditional methods. Polymerase chain reacton is a valid and useful technique, as long as it is standardized according to the needs and conditions of each laboratory. Polymerase chain reacton is remarkably useful in the implementation of the APPCC system; in the monitorization of specific agents within the food production chain; and for epidemiological studies that evaluate the occurrence, dynamic and distribution of a specific agent.