Scientists have described the main lessons learned from the use of whole genome sequencing (WGS) of E. coli in France.
WGS is routine for surveillance of Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC) human isolates. Experts assessed implementation of WGS between 2018 and 2022 for 1,002 sequenced isolates. From genomic distances of
Continue Reading Scientists report on WGS use for E. coli in France
Researchers have described how the rollout of Listeria sequencing to states in Australia led to an overall decline in turnaround times.
A study published in Emerging Infectious Diseases saw scientists assess turnaround times in the national Listeria monocytogenes genomic surveillance system before and after decentralized sequencing. They found a reduction in median
Continue Reading Study finds Listeria changes sped up analysis process
Scientists from the DTU National Food Institute in Denmark have helped develop a method that predicts how well bacteria such as Listeria can tolerate disinfectants.
A study published in Scientific Reports showed that machine learning can predict whether a bacterial strain will survive cleaning. The research was funded by Karl
Continue Reading Researchers aim to predict Listeria’s tolerance to disinfectants
The European Commission has answered several questions around new rules on the use of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) in foodborne outbreak investigations.
In a frequently asked questions document, the EU Commission has explained how member states should implement the new regulation.
Performing WGS on Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli
Continue Reading EU answers questions on mandatory use of WGS in outbreaks
Scientists at the USDA’s Agriculture Research Service have demonstrated the potential of a form of whole genome sequencing for the early detection of Salmonella on food contact surfaces.
The research into long-read whole genome sequencing (WGS) could give food processors more time to initiate sanitation of surfaces before biofilms are
Continue Reading New use of whole genome sequencing provides faster detection of Salmonella
A study by the CDC, FDA and USDA used whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and machine learning to identify chicken and vegetables as leading sources of Salmonella enterica infections in the United States.
The research, published in the April 2025 issue of Emerging Infectious Diseases, focused on sporadic cases, which account
Continue Reading Machine learning links up to 64 percent of Salmonella cases to chicken and vegetables
The European Commission has adopted legislation requiring EU countries to do Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) during foodborne outbreaks.
Member states will need to collect Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli, Campylobacter jejuni, and Campylobacter coli isolates from food, animal, feed, and related environmental samples from food and feed businesses, where the isolates are associated or
Continue Reading EU passes regulation on use of WGS during outbreaks
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has backed European plans to use whole genome sequencing (WGS) to help solve outbreaks.
The European Commission recently asked for comments on potential legislation requiring EU countries to do WGS during foodborne outbreaks.
The FDA said the proposed regulation would “significantly improve food
Continue Reading FDA supports EU’s WGS outbreak plan; food industry groups voice concerns
The European Commission has proposed legislation requiring EU countries to do whole genome sequencing (WGS) during foodborne outbreaks.
Officials said the plans would facilitate investigations into outbreaks and the timely detection of the source, which would limit the number of people sick and food recalls and withdrawals.
Member states would
Continue Reading EU Commission proposes use of WGS to help solve outbreaks
The chance to participate in a meeting on whole genome sequencing (WGS) for food safety and water surveillance has been opened.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) will organize the event in May 2025 in Rome, Italy to bring together government officials, public health professionals, researchers, and other stakeholders.
Continue Reading FAO plans WGS meeting; WHO wants aflatoxin data