CuratedFoodMetagenomicData (cFMD) is a new, open-source database for the collection of food microbial data. It currently includes the metagenomes of 2,533 foods, comprising more than 10,000 microbes, approximately half of which were previously unknown.

A recent European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) project explored new methods to understand the immunotoxicity of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). At the same time, one Swiss canton has called on Parliament to develop a PFAS action plan after finding widespread contamination on farms, and has banned the sale of beef with high levels of the chemical.

The European Commission has published a draft regulation that, if adopted, would require EU Member States to conduct whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis during foodborne illness outbreak investigations involving several important pathogens, and to report the results of WGS analyses.

A recent review of carcinogenicity data submitted to support U.S. FDA “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS) determinations for food substances has shown that, although the types of carcinogenicity data are varied, safety is typically adequately evidenced. Still, a standardized approach defining which data is required to support a GRAS determination could be useful. 

Thanks to whole genome sequencing (WGS) and other investigative data, two foodborne salmonellosis outbreaks previously thought to be separate have been linked to each other and have been associated with cucumbers.

A recent study has established a framework for identifying and prioritizing microbiological risks in infant food products. A web tool has been made available to the public.

In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to Joelle Mosso about her work at Western Growers to help produce growers develop improved approaches to food safety and sustainability by considering the entire farm-to-fork continuum. She discusses microbial testing of agricultural water, the transition to sustainable packaging, hygienic design of farm equipment, and other topics.

In the June/July Food Safety Insights column, a significant number of global food processors reported adopting new analytical testing technologies. This column dives further into processors' adoption of analytical testing technologies, whether for laboratory or in-plant use.

Environmental monitoring programs (EMPs) are not just static documents, but living systems that require active, weekly management. It is crucial to ensure that your EMP is not just in place, but also effective. This article discusses three key challenges for evaluating an EMP.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA’s FSIS) has published a guidance that provides a list of test kits that have been validated for detection of relevant foodborne pathogens.