Cyclospora, Toxoplasma, and Cryptosporidium have been detected in berries sold in Norway.

Researchers said findings show the need for a system to ensure the parasitological safety of fresh berries.

Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries were tested for Echinococcus multilocularis, Toxoplasma gondii, Cyclospora cayetanensis and Cryptosporidium.

Raspberries were the most contaminated followed
Continue Reading Study reveals parasites in berries; scientists say new protection system needed

Toxoplasma gondii is at the top of a risk ranking report of 20 pathogens in Norway.

It was followed by Campylobacter, Echinococcus multilocularis, enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), Listeria monocytogenes, and non-typhoidal Salmonella, according to the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM).

The Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) commissioned
Continue Reading Toxoplasma gondii tops risk ranking list in Norway

Adequate surveillance programs for most foodborne parasites in Europe are lacking, according to a recently published study.

Researchers found although human and animal data are available for five selected parasites, the surveillance and reporting requirements vary among and within regions and countries, and among national experts and European bodies.

In
Continue Reading Researchers find gaps in EU parasite surveillance

Food safety advice for pregnant women has been updated in New Zealand including changes to fish, certain cheeses and pasteurized dairy products.

The focus is Listeria monocytogenes, Toxoplasma gondii, methylmercury and caffeine, as these hazards have known specific impacts on the fetus. For Salmonella and Campylobacter, associated with adverse outcomes
Continue Reading Research shows need to update food safety guidance for pregnant women

Officials have published a document highlighting ways to avoid the risks from foodborne parasites transmitted by pork, freshwater fish and crustaceans.

Foodborne parasitic diseases are often neglected in food safety control systems even though they can cause severe human health problems, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the
Continue Reading FAO highlights ‘often neglected’ foodborne parasites

A study on the presence of Toxoplasma gondii in retail meat in Scotland has highlighted venison as potentially high risk.

Toxoplasma gondii DNA was detected in 48 of 149 venison samples over two sampling periods. Consumption of undercooked meat is a known risk factor for toxoplasmosis infection.

Findings could be
Continue Reading Study suggests higher risk of Toxoplasma infection from venison