EFSA Evaluates Molecular Typing Methods for Foodborne Pathogens
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) today published a scientific opinion paper, written by the agency's Panel on Biological Hazards (BIOHAZ), which reviews various molecular typing methods for the four major foodborne pathogens (Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Listeria and Campylobacter) and evaluates the effectiveness of those methods. One outcome of the BIOHAZ Panel's research is a recommendation that public health and veterinary authorities strengthen their cooperation on the use of molecular typing for foodborne pathogens.
The Panel assessed a number of laboratory techniques that enable the classification and comparison of strains of disease-causing bacteria to determine their effectiveness for: