Ensuring food safety and public health

Foodborne outbreaks over the past decades have highlighted the critical need for preventive measures to ensure food safety from farm to fork. The emergence of novel foodborne pathogens poses significant challenges to food processors, handlers, and manufacturers. These pathogens, even at low levels of contamination, can cause severe illness and lead to economic losses, underscoring the importance of rigorous testing and hygiene protocols.

Why food pathogen testing is essential

Pathogen testing ensures food safety by detecting and mitigating the risk of foodborne illnesses. Advanced methods such as DNA-based testing, laser diagnostics, and PCR have replaced conventional time-consuming techniques, offering:

  • Greater accuracy and sensitivity
  • Faster turnaround times
  • Compliance with AOAC international standards

Our testing services across various matrices, including:

  • General food
  • Drinking water
  • Animal feed
  • Poultry products
  • Fruits, vegetables, and herbs
  • Packaging materials

Understanding the risks of foodborne pathogens

The rise in foodborne illnesses can be attributed to several factors:

  • International trade introducing pathogens to new areas
  • Microbial adaptation
  • Changes in food production systems
  • Population growth and modern lifestyle choices
  • Weak immune systems in specific population groups
  • Aging demographics

A closer look at foodborne illness outbreaks

  • United States: Approximately 1 in 6 Americans are affected by foodborne illnesses annually, with 48 million reported cases, 128,000 hospitalisations, and 3,000 fatalities
  • Canada: In 2007, yersiniosis and listeriosis cases were linked to contaminated dairy products
  • Czech Republic: A listeriosis outbreak in 2007 caused 13 fatalities due to contaminated soft cheese and non-dairy foods

Emerging pathogens include:

  • Non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC)
  • Arcobacter butzleri
  • Cronobacter sakazakii
  • Norovirus
  • Toxoplasma gondii
  • Yersinia enterocolitica

Complications from emerging pathogens

  • Arcobacter butzleri: Causes gastroenteric disorders, renal failure, and prolonged exposure risks
  • Cronobacter sakazakii: Fatal bloodstream infections, especially in premature infants and individuals with weakened immune systems
  • Norovirus: Highly contagious, causing severe vomiting and diarrhea through contaminated food, water, or surfaces
  • Trichinella spiralis: Leads to trichinosis from consuming undercooked meat, causing symptoms like fever, abdominal discomfort, and muscle pain

Pathogens and toxins tested

Eurofins Food and Feed Testing conducts testing for a variety of pathogens and toxins, including:

Salmonella
Listeria monocytogenes
Escherichia coli (e.g., coli O157:H7)
Campylobacter
Staphylococcus aureus
Mycotoxins, yeast, and molds
Hepatitis A virus

Get in touch

Would you like to find out more about our testing solutions, or do you need tailored analytical support? Contact us today to get in touch with our experts.

Contact us