Campylobacter testing

The Eurofins Food & Feed Testing laboratory network provides expertise in Campylobacter testing. This pathogen, responsible for numerous foodborne illnesses, requires reliable analytical methods to guarantee product safety. We offer a wide range of solutions, from trace detection to quantification, to ensure regulatory compliance and protect consumer health.

Key services

  • Detection of Campylobacter spp. using ISO 10272-1
  • Enumeration using ISO 10272-2
  • Alternative methods validated under ISO 16140-2, providing faster turnaround and cost-effective screening

Health risks posed by Campylobacter

Campylobacter can cause campylobacteriosis, the most frequently reported foodborne illness in the EU, with over 220,000 confirmed cases in 2019. However, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) estimates that the actual number of annual cases could exceed 9 million. Campylobacteriosis can be severe or even fatal, with 30% of cases requiring hospitalisation.

Main source of contamination

Raw poultry meat is one of the main carriers of Campylobacter contamination because the bacteria can live in the intestines of healthy birds. European data show that:

  • 34.6% of chicken carcasses tested positive for Campylobacter, with 18.4% exceeding 1,000 CFU/g
  • The bacteria are also found in pigs (5.8%), cattle (0.5%), and raw milk (0.6%)

The main Campylobacter species involved in confirmed foodborne outbreaks are:

  • Campylobacter jejuni (83.9%)
  • C. coli (10.3%)
  • C. lari (0.1%)
  • C. fetus (0.1%)
  • C. upsaliensis

Legal framework and guidelines*

European Union (EU)

UK status post-brexit

  • The UK has retained Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005, including the Campylobacter hygiene criterion
  • Northern Ireland continues to follow EU 2017/1495 under the Protocol

* Regulatory information is provided for general guidance only and may not reflect the most recent regulatory changes. Always consult official sources for up‑to‑date legislation. For market‑specific support, please contact your local Eurofins Food & Feed Testing laboratory. Our specialists offer tailored support through horizon scanning and food safety consultancy services.

Get in touch

For small batches, order our most routine testing from Eurofins Testing Direct.

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