Guidance document on the use of whole genome sequencing (WGS) for source tracking from a food industry perspective

Abstract

In 2019, a number of food companies came together in a workshop to share experiences on the use and implementation of whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) in the food industry. Although the main benefits and high discriminatory power of WGS to differentiate isolates was well understood and acknowledged by participants, it was discussed that perhaps not all safety specialists in the food industry are familiar with terminologies, methodologies and interpretation of WGS technology. In order to address the knowledge gaps, a guidance document is provided here to help food safety and quality management professionals in the food industry in the understanding of WGS used for food safety. It also puts WGS in the context of other technologies used to characterize isolates and could be used as guidance to choose the appropriate technology for the intended purpose.