Foodborne Research Articles

Produce Safety Behaviors, Motivators, Barriers, and Beliefs in Pediatric Cancer Patient Caretakers

Cancer patients, who face increased foodborne illness susceptibility and severity, are often placed on neutropenic diets (NDs), which eliminate the consumption of fresh produce, among other foods perceived as high-risk. Such diets are clinically disputed because they have never been proven effective in reducing foodborne illness, leading to unstandardized dietary guideline content, format, and delivery methods. To inform a strategic communication approach, this study explored the produce safety handling behavior, barriers, motivators, and beliefs of pediatric cancer patient caretakers using a mixed methods convergent parallel design. A quantitative survey revealed high frequencies (>60%) for generally recommended produce safety behaviors, such as rinsing produce and washing cutting boards, and more mixed responses for restrictive produce safety behaviors, such as peeling produce and avoiding precut, self-serve, and school cafeteria produce. Total produce safety frequency scores were not significantly affected by demographic factors or Child Vulnerability Scale (CVS) scores. Qualitative interviews established a wide domain of caretaker produce safety experiences and beliefs, finding that eight of seventeen interview participants from different hospitals received produce restrictions typical of the ND. Ultimately, five caretaker archetypes were identified, with common motivators and barriers linked to materials received, child’s health and perceived susceptibility, and self-efficacy beliefs. Finally, response-driven communication strategy improvements were recommended. Although sample sizes in this work were small, and further validation is advised, this work highlights the inconsistent use of the restrictive ND, advances understanding of the drivers of produce safety behaviors in cancer patient caretakers, and supports future endeavors to streamline communication strategy interventions.

A hybrid approach to study and forecast climate-sensitive norovirus infections in the USA

Norovirus, responsible for acute gastroenteritis and foodborne diseases in the United States, is influenced significantly by environmental factors. This study employs a hybrid approach to develop a foodborne disease model that incorporates indirect incidence to examine the correlation between norovirus outbreaks and environmental conditions, specifically focusing on the impact of temperature and humidity on virus transmission. By analyzing weekly average climate data and confirmed case data from four United States regions (Southern, Northeastern, Midwestern, and Western), we assess the mortality rates and estimate transmission rates using the inverse method. Our numerical results confirm that norovirus outbreaks predominantly occur in colder months. However, higher temperatures or increased humidity during warmer months appear to mitigate the spread of the virus. Utilizing climate data, this study also forecasts transmission rates and infection cases up to eight weeks in advance using a generalized boosting machine learning model.

Food handling practices and sanitary conditions of charitable food assistance programs in eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Unsafe food handling practices by food handlers have dire health and financial implications worldwide. Each year, approximately 600 million people, or about 1 in 10 people, are said to become ill from eating contaminated food, and 420,000 people inadvertently die. According to the 2019 World Bank report on the economic burden of foodborne diseases, the annual cost of treating foodborne illnesses is estimated to be US$ 15 billion, and the total productivity loss caused by foodborne diseases in low- and middle-income countries is estimated to be US$ 95.2 billion annually. The purpose of this study was to assess the food handling practices and sanitary conditions of the charitable food assistance programs (CFAPs) in the eThekwini District of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 196 CFAPs in eight study settings across five municipal planning regions (MPRs) of the eThekwini District between January 2021 and May 2021. Data were collected using a standardized 37-item observational checklist and analysed through Stata Statistical Software (TX: StataCorp. 2021 LLC.: Release 17. College Station). Compliance levels were calculated using the compliance score (C-score), whereby 0.0–0.20 (0–20%), 0.21–0.40 (21–40%), 0.41–0.60 (41–60%), 0.61–0.80 (61–80%), and 0.81–1.00 (81–100%) were determined as very poor, poor, average, good, and very good, respectively. Statistically significant associations were declared at p < 0.05. Compliance with food hygiene, storage, and packaging was very poor (C-score = 0.003), as were personal hygiene and staff facilities (C-score = 0.147), as well as product information/labelling (C-score = 0.003). Similarly, waste management and pest control systems (C-score = 0.203), compliance with health and hygiene education/training (C-score = 0.335), as well as use and maintenance of transport (C-score = 0.333), all scored ‘poor’. Only the design of premises and facilities had an average compliance score (C-score = 0.43). Given CFAPs’ role in mitigating the impact of poverty, their strict compliance with hygiene protocols is of utmost importance. Systems for identifying and correcting common noncompliance in CFAPs are required.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of meat hygiene among slaughterhouse workers and retail meat sellers in Bangladesh

Inadequate handling of raw meat leading to cross-contamination, often stemming from insufficient knowledge and practices among meat handlers, poses a significant global health challenge, especially in developing nations where food-borne diseases are prevalent. Effective understanding and implementation of preventive measures by meat handlers are essential in reducing the incidence of food-borne illnesses and the contamination of raw meat. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding meat hygiene among retail meat sellers and slaughterhouse personnel in the Bogura district of Bangladesh. A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted, encompassing 408 meat handlers selected through a multistage sampling approach. Data on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices of meat hygiene were collected using a structured questionnaire, and then analyzed. The participants had a mean age of 34.63 years with a standard deviation of 13.44. The majority of participants demonstrated good knowledge (70.70 %) and positive attitudes (53 %). However, no significant differences were observed in good (49.80 %) or poor (50.20 %) practices regarding meat hygiene. Interestingly, significant associations were observed between knowledge and age (p = 0.022), location (p < 0.001), and borderline significance in training (p = 0.051). Similarly, a statistically significant association was found between the practice of meat hygiene and age (p = 0.041), level of education (p = 0.008), and training (p = 0.004). Furthermore, a significant association existed between knowledge and practices of meat hygiene (p < 0.001). Older meat handlers with training exhibited better knowledge and practices of meat hygiene compared to their younger counterparts. This study underscores the importance of public health education, policy development, and regular training and retraining programs for meat handlers to ensure safe meat handling practices and overall hygiene.

Complementary food hygiene practice and associated factors among mothers with children aged 6-23 months in Dessie Zuria, South Wollo Zone, Amhara, Ethiopia, 2023.

Implementing appropriate complementary food hygiene practices is essential to lower the incidence of food-borne disease and malnutrition in children. However, this aspect is often overlooked in resource-limited settings, and information regarding these practices is not fully available and is not assessed enough. Therefore, this study aimed to assess complementary food hygiene practices and their associated factors in Dessie Zuria, South Wollo Zone, Amhara, Ethiopia, in 2023. An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from 17 April to 18 May 2023, among 366 mothers with children aged 6-23 months. Dessie Zuria was purposively selected, and a systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit study participants. Data were collected using pretested and structured questionnaires. Finally, the data were entered using EPI-info and then exported to SPSS version 26. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with complementary feeding hygiene practices. Both crude odds ratios (COR) and adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with a 95% confidence level (CI) were computed, and a p-value of <0.05, in the final model, was considered statistically significant. The proportion of households practicing complementary food hygiene was 22.22%. Factors associated with these practices included access to media such as television or radio (AOR = 10.51, 95% CI: 2.8, 39.28), starting complementary feeding before 6 months (AOR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.05, 3.84), and the child's age being 6 to 11 months (AOR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.7). The prevalence of complementary food hygiene practices was poor. Healthcare professionals should promote starting breastfeeding at the age of 6 months. In addition, media companies ought to make an effort to create a positive social and cultural environment that encourages complementary feeding practices for young children.

Whole genome sequencing assisted outbreak investigation of Salmonella enteritidis, at a hospital in South Africa, September 2022.

Health authorities were notified of a suspected outbreak of foodborne disease in a hospital in South Africa, where staff and patients reported acute onset of abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, fever and rigours after eating a chicken pasta meal. The aim of this report is to discuss the use of whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis of bacterial isolates to support an epidemiological investigation. An epidemiological investigation led by the Infection Control Manager of the hospital and supported by an outbreak response team was conducted. Standard microbiological procedures were used to process stool samples and culture/identify diarrhoeal pathogens. Bacterial cultures were investigated using WGS performed using Illumina NextSeq technology, and WGS data were analysed using multiple bioinformatics tools, including those available at the Center for Genomic Epidemiology and EnteroBase. Core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) was used to investigate the phylogeny of isolates. Forty-nine cases were identified, with stool samples collected from 21 cases, and nontyphoidal Salmonella isolated from 19 out of 21 (90%) of the samples. All isolates were identified as Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis and differed from each other by ≤2 allele differences on cgMLST, indicating that isolates are highly genetically related. Delays in testing of food retention samples rendered the negative test results of limited value. A case-control study was conducted; eating chicken pasta was strongly associated with developing gastroenteritis (Odds Ration (OR) = 15.4, Chi-Square test with Yates correction p value = 0.02). The epidemiological evidence suggests that the chicken pasta was the likely vehicle of transmission in this outbreak, although the source of S. enterica serovar Enteritidis remains unknown.

First Molecular Identification and Whole Genome Sequencing of Listeria monocytogenes Isolated From an African Lion.

Listeria monocytogenes (LM) is a zoonotic pathogen that causes sporadic infectious listeriosis, which is a foodborne disease associated with consumption of contaminated food or feed. The internal organs of an African lion from a zoo in Shanghai were analysed to determine the cause of death. LM infection was suspected on the basis of the clinical symptoms and pathological changes and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction, whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. This is the first report of LM infection of an African lion in China.

Multifunctional and novelty green composite film containing sodium alginate, chitosan, rice husk and curcumin

Foodborne diseases are a global public health issue, with their causes often originating from lapses in food production or transportation leading to food contamination. Therefore, food packaging plays a crucial role in preserving the safety and quality of food. In pursuit of sustainable development, this study aims to utilize agricultural waste-derived functional mesoporous silica nanoparticles in combination with biodegradable molecules to create food packaging films. Through recycling and the use of environmentally friendly green films, the goal is to achieve sustainability and the objectives of green chemistry. The study anticipates the production of biodegradable films and the testing of their antibacterial capabilities, antioxidant properties, biocompatibility, and film stress coefficients. This research will provide robust support for advancing green packaging technology to address the challenges of global food safety and environmental sustainability.The experiment is divided into two parts. The first part involves the synthesis of multifunctional mesoporous silica nanoparticles with antibacterial properties derived from rice husk (Rice husk mesoporous silica nanoparticles, rMSN) as nano-fillers. These nanoparticles are surface modified with a biodegradable polymer, chitosan (Chi), that interacts with the material. Natural extract curcumin (Cur), known for its antioxidant capabilities, is loaded into the pores, and the material's inherent antibacterial properties are utilized. The second part involves blending the material with the natural polymer sodium alginate (SA) to form a film (rMSN-Chi@Cur/Alg film). The film's thickness, stress strength, antibacterial, and antioxidant capabilities are tested to ensure the material possesses antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Incidence of Pathogens in Fruits and Vegetables in Tropical Bwari Town

Introduction: In numerous tropical regions of developing nations, the prevalence of foodborne illnesses is perceived to be more severe than in developed countries, due to insufficient food safety initiatives or the lack of a structured institutional framework for street food vendors. The study's objectives of examining microorganisms associated with fruits and vegetables, the prevailing temperature and the hygiene practices of various fruit and vegetable sellers were all met. Methods: A self-designed questionnaire completed by twenty vendors were used. Laboratory techniques like serial dilution, biochemical testing, and culture techniques were used. A handheld thermometer was used to determine the prevailing temperature, and descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel was used to analyze data. Results and Discussion: Statistical analysis revealed that 80% of vendors had washing facilities, 70% worked in a clean environment, 20% washed their hands before handling fruits, 70% dressed correctly, and 70% kept their fruits and vegetables above the WHO temperature standard. A laboratory investigation revealed the bacteria counts of (watermelon being the highest 8.3×105, cucumber 5.4×105, carrot 2.3×105, orange 3.7×105). Microbial species encountered were Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella species, amongst others, which increases health risk. Conclusion: The study concluded that temperatures, handling processes, and inadequate hygiene all had impact on fruits and vegetables sold in tropical Bwari area. It also established a link between temperature and the prevalence of bacteria in fruits and vegetables. As a result, the study suggests monitoring and surveillance of fruit and vegetable sellers, national vendor hygiene policies and public awareness.

Microbiology Test Results for White Edible Birds Nest with Fecal Contamination

Background: Southeast Asia's edible bird nest industry, particularly in Indonesia, has experienced rapid growth in recent years. Indonesia stands as the world's leading exporter of edible bird nests. However, concerns persist regarding the quality of edible bird nests produced in the country, specifically to do with meeting quality standards by ensuring freedom from microbial contaminants that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Purpose: To evaluate the microbiological contamination of cleaned edible bird nests sourced from Java Island, Indonesia. Cases(s): Yellow-brown discoloration of edible bird nests collected from bird houses of Javan origin. Case Management: Fifty samples of raw white edible bird’s nest samples (cup-shaped) with yellow-brown discoloration (n=25) originating from Java Island and raw white edible bird’s nest samples (cup-shaped) (n=25) were collected aseptically from the edible bird’s nest warehouses in Surabaya. These samples of edible nests from Java Island were subjected to microbiological analysis. The findings revealed a disconcerting trend, with 25 samples from Java Island exhibiting contamination by Escherichia coli (40%) and coliform bacteria (100%), surpassing established contamination thresholds. Conclusion: This raises critical concerns about the safety and quality of edible bird nests from the region, highlighting the need for enhanced production and processing practices, as well as rigorous quality control measures to ensure consumer safety and to maintain the industry's reputation on a global scale. Addressing these issues is imperative not only to safeguard public health but also to sustain and further develop the lucrative edible bird nest industry in Indonesia.

Recent Progress in Nanomaterial-Based Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for Food Safety Detection.

Food safety has recently become a widespread concern among consumers. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a rapidly developing novel spectroscopic analysis technique with high sensitivity, an ability to provide molecular fingerprint spectra, and resistance to photobleaching, offering broad application prospects in rapid trace detection. With the interdisciplinary development of nanomaterials and biotechnology, the detection performance of SERS biosensors has improved significantly. This review describes the advantages of nanomaterial-based SERS detection technology and SERS's latest applications in the detection of biological and chemical contaminants, the identification of foodborne pathogens, the authentication and quality control of food, and the safety assessment of food packaging materials. Finally, the challenges and prospects of constructing and applying nanomaterial-based SERS sensing platforms in the field of food safety detection are discussed with the aim of early detection and ultimate control of foodborne diseases.

Probe-based dual-chip digital loop-mediated isothermal amplification for the simultaneous detection of Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enteritidis in livestock and aquatic products

Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella are common pathogens causing foodborne diseases, posing a serious threat to food safety. Accurate detection of foodborne pathogens is particularly critical. This study developed a probe-based dual-chip digital loop-mediated isothermal amplification (cdLAMP) technique that enables the simultaneous detection of Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella in food samples. The chip contains 20,000 wells, each with a micro-reaction unit volume of approximately 1 nL. The dual-detection is achieved through the dual-color fluorescence channel equipped on the imaging analyzer. Compared with qPCR, the cdLAMP demonstrates superior sensitivity. In the detection of pure cultures and spiked food samples, the detection limit of two foodborne pathogens is 2 CFU/mL. In the detection of field samples, it is capable of detecting single colonies of both pathogens. The dynamic detection range spans 5 logs. In conclusion, the probe-based cdLAMP technique emerges as a user-friendly tool for detecting foodborne pathogens, providing a powerful platform for food safety testing.

Risk ranking of microbial hazards from consumption of ready-to-eat fresh produce (RTEFP)

The consumption of contaminated Ready-To-Eat Fresh Produce (RTEFP), especially minimally processed leafy green vegetables and fruits, is increasingly recognised as a source of foodborne illnesses, posing a significant safety risk to human health. RTEFP can become contaminated with enteric foodborne pathogens via different sources. Water used during the pre-harvest (irrigation) and post-harvest (washing water) has been identified as a potentially important transmission route for foodborne pathogens entering horticultural crops. The objective of the present study was to (i) evaluate human exposure to indicator microorganisms, which may act as a surrogate to assess potential exposure to harmful pathogens, and (ii) create a Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) to assess the human health safety risks (infection or illness) from foodborne pathogens following the application of treated irrigation (sprinkler) water to RTEFP and assess potential microbial intake through the consumption of RTEFP grown on irrigated land. A QMRA based on published literature was constructed to analyse microbial daily/annual risk to foodborne enteric pathogens associated with consuming ready-to-eat fresh produce. The likelihood of exposure to target pathogens was determined using different model parameters. The results show that the pathogens were prioritised as Shigella spp., Cryptosporidium parvum, Salmonella spp., Giardia lamblia based on probability of illness and Campylobacter spp., norovirus, adenovirus and rotavirus based on probability of infection. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the consumption of RTE fresh produce and cumulative decay constant of pathogens are the most sensitive parameters of the QMRA model, followed by the initial concentration of pathogens, chlorine treatment, growth on shelves, and finally, the effect of cold storage. This study highlighted that chlorine used pre and post-harvest was an effective remedial measure to assist food safety. The study highlights the need for risk-benefit in balancing potential chemical (chlorine) human exposure and the benefits of reduced microbial loads on RTEFP.

Farmers market food safety: A comprehensive review of training needs in the U.S.

Farmers markets offer an apparently easy way for small-scale or hobbyist food producers to sell fresh produce, meat, and poultry from their farms or dis­tribute value-added products, but they may be unaware of the foodborne illness risks associated with both fresh produce and derivative products, as well as of their local food safety requirements. Food guidance and rules vary from state to state and market to market, making it difficult for indi­viduals to navigate the various regulatory levels. Even if a local food producer is exempt from these rules due to their amount of sales, they will still benefit greatly from resources and educational tools that increase awareness and knowledge of food safety best practices. This review discusses current knowledge of and guidelines for food safety in farmers markets based on peer-reviewed and grey literature as well as published guidelines and recommendations. We examine facilities and supplies, regulatory measures, education and train­ing, and Good Farmers Market Practices as pre­ventive measures to enhance food safety in farmers markets, which are critical to local and regional food systems. Overall, we identified various barri­ers to implementing farmers market food safety standards and practices in this scoping review; removing these barriers will require the participa­tion of local regularity authorities, market managers, vendors, and consumers.

Antibacterial activity of lactic acid bacteria isolated from traditionally fermented food against food pathogen

Aim: To evaluate the antibacterial activity of lactic acid bacteria against selected food pathogens (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus). Method: A total of twenty (20) traditionally fermented food samples were purchased from a market in Owerri metropolis. Isolation and identification of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were conducted using standard microbiological techniques. LAB was identified using standard morphological and biochemical tests. They were tested against food pathogens using the Agar well diffusion method. Results: The isolated lactic acid bacteria include Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus plantarum and were label as SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 respectively. The isolated LAB species had a considerable inhibitory effect on food borne pathogens. Cell free supernatant of four species were tested for antagonistic activity at 24hrs and 48hrs incubation time. Cell free supernatant from 48hrs broth of SP1 showed the highest zone of inhibition on Escherichia coli (28mm) while the cell free supernatant from 24hrs broth of SP4 showed the lowest zone of inhibition on Staphylococcus aureus (13 mm). Conclusion: The antimicrobial activity increases with time. LAB demonstrated high antimicrobial properties against food borne pathogens. This potential can be employed as starters in food industry to inhibit food spoilage microbes and contaminants.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding hygiene among meat handlers in Vijayapura city, North Karnataka

Background: Food-borne diseases are a significant health concern globally, particularly in meat-related cases, due to unhygienic handling and inadequate sanitation. Challenges such as inadequate food safety regulations, weak regulatory frameworks and insufficient awareness among food handlers contribute in exacerbating the issue. The aim of this study was to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices of hygiene among slaughterhouse workers in Vijayapura, north Karnataka. Objective was to evaluate the sociodemographic characteristics of meat handlers and their correlation with knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to meat hygiene in in Vijayapura, north Karnataka. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Vijayapura city from July to September 2023, involving meat handlers from various shops. 79 participants were selected from 200 shops using a lottery method, anticipating a 71% knowledge level of meat hygiene. Informed consent was taken, and data collection was done using a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire. Results: Among the 79 participants, 86.1% were male and 13.9% female, with 64.5% having over five years of experience. Most (96.2%) had good knowledge of meat hygiene, while 3.8% had poor knowledge. Significant associations were found between gender (p=0.00), religion (p=0.00), educational status (p=0.013), and meat hygiene practices. Conclusions: The study reveals satisfactory knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding meat hygiene among meat handlers in Vijayapura. It is highly advisable to emphasize public health education, develop policies, and implement consistent training programs for meat handlers focused on safe meat handling practices, as well as maintaining high standards of personal and general hygiene.

Health consequences of harmful chemicals in foods: insights from the WHO Global Burden of Foodborne Disease Study

Abstract Foods can be an important source of human exposure to harmful chemicals. Contamination can occur at any stage of the food chain; with chemicals that occur naturally or by anthropogenic pollution in the environment and during production processes from farm level to the kitchen of the consumer. The variety of chemicals in foods is broad and associated with a wide range of adverse health effects. Where toxicological risk assessment of chemicals in foods serves the purpose of protecting populations from exposure levels constituting a health concern, burden of disease methodology provides a quantitative snapshot of the current impact of chemicals on disease occurrence and population health. This allows for the comparison across hazards, health effects and foods and eventually prioritized allocation of resources to maximize health benefits. Following the advice by the World Health Organization Foodborne Disease Burden Epidemiology Reference group (WHO/FERG), WHO published in 2015 the first estimates of the global burden of foodborne disease. More than 400,000 deaths and 33 million disability-adjusted life years were estimated due to unsafe foods in 2010; the largest proportion due to foodborne pathogens, as the contribution of only 3 chemical hazards (dioxins, aflatoxin B1 and cassava cyanide) was included. WHO, once more under the advice by the re-established WHO/FERG (2021-2025), is currently working to update the 2010 estimates. Besides applying updated data and methodological improvements in managing data gaps and time series analysis, WHO’s ambition is to consider a wider range of chemicals and associated health effects for the year of 2020. In this presentation, we will share insights on the WHO estimates of the global burden of foodborne chemicals, and explore the methodological opportunities and challenges that estimating the burden of foodborne chemicals provides for informing policies.

10.E. Scientific session: Confronting the hidden risks: unveiling the disease burden of chemicals in Europe

Abstract With increasing industrialization and globalization, Europe faces a complex landscape of chemical hazards, ranging from persistent organic pollutants like PFAS to foodborne chemicals and beyond. Understanding the extent of these exposures and their associated population health risks is crucial for environmental and health policy making across Europe. The burden of disease methodology, particularly through metrics such as Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), combined with economic costs, plays a crucial role in assessing and addressing the impacts of chemicals on population health. DALYs provide a comprehensive measure that quantifies both the years of life lost due to premature death and the years lived with disability, offering a holistic understanding of the disease burden caused by chemical exposures. Additionally, incorporating economic costs into the analysis enables the evaluation of the financial burden imposed by chemical-related illnesses on healthcare systems, productivity, and societal well-being. By leveraging the burden of disease methodology, stakeholders can make evidence-based decisions to protect health of populations and allocate resources effectively, ultimately promoting healthier environments and communities. Several global and European initiatives provide platforms for evidence generation, knowledge-sharing, and action to address the disease burden of chemicals. At the global level, the Foodborne Disease Burden Epidemiology Reference Group of the World Health Organization (WHO/FERG) has estimated the global burden of foodborne diseases, including those caused by chemical contaminants in foods. At European level, the health impact of PFAS and other chemicals of high concern is being spearheaded by the European Environment Agency’s European Topic Centre on Human Health and the Environment, and the European Partnership on the Assessment of Risks from Chemicals (PARC). Furthermore, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development has established a project of an unprecedented scale to measure the economic value of the effects of chemicals on human health. Complementary to these international initiatives, various countries have started to unravel the burden of chemicals based on local data and contextual insights. In this workshop, we will present the state-of-the-art of the disease burden of chemicals, by bringing together insights from key international and national burden of disease initiatives, emphasizing the imperative of addressing the cost of policy inaction in safeguarding public health. We will also show how burden of disease estimates for chemicals can help to monitor the trends towards relevant environment and health goals such as those described in the EU’s zero pollution ambition. Through collaborative discussions and knowledge-sharing, we aspire to identify actionable strategies for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to effectively address these challenges and promote a healthier future for all. Key messages • Understanding the vital importance of chemical risks for European health, the utilization of DALY and economic costs reveals their true burden, guiding evidence-based policies. • Global, regional and national initiatives are examining the impacts of chemicals worldwide, contributing to evidence gathering and policy shaping.

Rapid and sensitive detection of staphylococcal enterotoxin E using a time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatography assay

Staphylococcal food poisoning is a significant foodborne illness caused by staphylococcal enterotoxins (SEs). Immunoassays have become the primary method for rapidly detecting harmful bacteria and toxins because of their excellent sensitivity and specificity. However, these assays have limitations in that they cannot differentiate between types of SEs and do not provide rapid, on-site, quantitative testing. In this study, a time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatography assay (TRFICA) was developed specifically for detecting staphylococcal enterotoxin E (SEE), which is commonly found in dairy products. Compared with a double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, which had a detection limit of 0.028 ng/mL, TRFICA demonstrated comparable sensitivity, enabling SEE quantification with a detection limit as low as 0.081 ng/mL in infant formula. Validation by spiking infant formula samples confirmed no cross-reactivity with analogs (recoveries ranged from 93.17% to 128.77%). Furthermore, with an 8-min reaction time and interpretation delivered by a portable TRFICA strip reader, our method demonstrates potential for use in mobile and on-site detection. This study describes a rapid, easy, and reliable method for detecting trace levels of SEE in infant formula, which could serve as an early screening tool toward preventing food poisoning in infants and children.

The Relationship Between the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Herders on Hygienic Milking and The Contamination Risk of Milk with Cryptosporidium Oocyst in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Dairy products are consumed by millions on daily basis worldwide and as such the potential for foodborne illness is a major concern. This study investigated the occurrence of Cryptosporidium oocyst in cow bulk milk and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of herders towards hygienic milking in selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kaduna State, Nigeria. A total of 120 milk samples were collected for this study. Detection of Cryptosporidium oocyst in milk samples was carried out by concentration technique using Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO4) solution and stained with Modified Ziehl Neelsen method. Sixty (60) structured questionnaires were administered to herders in the study area to identify possible risk factors and assess their knowledge, attitudes and practices toward hygienic milking. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in cow bulk milk was 11.7% (14/120). Questionnaires administered showed that the majority of the respondents had poor knowledge (88.3%), negative attitudes (85.0%) and adopted unsatisfactory practices (95.0%) to hygienic milking. The occurrence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in cow bulk milk from this study suggests that the dairy cattle in these LGAs have a high potential for transmitting Cryptosporidium to humans. Hence the findings of this study are of great public health significance as these group of animals sampled produce milk for consumption in both urban and rural communities. Therefore, inhabitants of these LGAs should be informed and educated on the need to improve sanitary measures while milking these animals and the need for adequate pasteurization of milk before consumption.