This episode covers new research on food allergen risks in processing environments, including studies on allergen recovery from environmental swabs, cross-contamination in shared frying oil, and dispersal of allergenic food powders. Also discussed is an EU proposal to harmonize precautionary allergen labeling (PAL) requirements.
In an analysis of domestic refrigerator swabs, researchers discovered complex microbial communities harboring foodborne pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The findings also suggested that regular cleaning is possibly more important than temperature control in managing these communities.
Dispersibility may be a useful tool for simulating the spread and hygienic control of allergenic food powders. Researchers recommend that producers add powders from as low a position as possible to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
A new study quantified the allergen cross-contamination that occurs in shared frying oil and evaluated the efficacy of different filters in removing allergen protein residues from oil.
To support Codex committee deliberations, an ad hoc joint FAO/WHO committee convened to recommend a gluten reference dose (RfD) in a risk-based precautionary allergen labeling (PAL) framework to ensure food safety for people with both celiac and immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated wheat allergies.
A laboratory study has provided new insights into the efficacy of peroxyacetic acid (PAA) and chlorine dioxide against Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and norovirus in wash water during potato processing, and investigated cross-contamination risks in batch washing and water reuse scenarios.
Proactive Listeria testing can save millions in recall costs. Learn how validated PCR diagnostics, rapid environmental monitoring, and data-driven insights help food brands prevent contamination, ensure compliance, and protect consumer trust.
Penn State researchers have demonstrated the potential for Salmonella Dublin to spread among cattle, the environment, and people—necessitating a “One Health” response. Based on their analysis, rising antibiotic resistance is also a concern.
A recent study found that Listeria monocytogenes from multispecies biofilms exhibits higher growth in ready-to-eat (RTE) cold-smoked salmon than L. monocytogenes from single-species biofilms. Additionally, L. monocytogenes contamination from the multi-species biofilm surpassed EU regulatory limits after 15 days of storage.
CDC released a summary of Foodborne Disease Outbreak Surveillance System data, analyzing the causes of foodborne illness outbreaks that occurred between 2014 and 2022.
RSS
