Food Safety Regulations Research Articles

Genomic analysis of Listeria monocytogenes strains from dairy products in Ethiopia

This study explored virulence genes, antibiotic resistance genes, and mobile genetic elements in 14 Listeria monocytogenes strains from milk and dairy products collected from different regions of Ethiopia. The strains were classified into two Multilocus Sequence Typing sequence types (ST2 and ST45) and further grouped into clonal complexes (CC2) and different cgMLST types. Twenty-nine virulence genes were identified across all 14 strains, with lplA1 detected at higher levels in all strains except SAMN28661660. All L. monocytogenes strains also carried four antibiotic resistance genes (fosX, lin, norB, mprF), contributing to their ability to withstand multiple antimicrobial agents. Notably, no plasmids or mobile genetic elements were detected. Stress resistance genes, including stress survival islet 1 (SSI1_lmo0447), lmo 1800, and lmo1799, were identified in all strains. However, genes encoding for disinfectant resistance were not identified from all strains. LGI-2 was found in all the strains and none of the studied strains harbored LGI-1 and LGI-3. Conserved CRISPR-Cas systems were found in some strains. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that inlA and inlB genes facilitate bacterial internalization through host actin polymerization. Overall, the study provided crucial insights into the genomic features of L. monocytogenes in the Ethiopian dairy chain. It is crucial to establish continuous monitoring of L. monocytogenes in dairy products, improve sanitation, enforce stricter antibiotic usage and food safety regulations, and raise public awareness of associated risks.

Innovation in Amla Jelly Millet Cake: Comprehensive Nutritional Profiling, Sensory Analysis, Microbial Assessment, and Packaging Strategies

The goal of this study was to create and test a unique Amla Jelly Millet Cake, with a focus on its nutritional profile, physicochemical qualities, microbiological safety, and optimal packaging solutions. The cake combines Amla (Indian Gooseberry), which is high in Vitamin C and antioxidants, with millet flour, which is gluten-free and healthy. Comprehensive nutritional profile, while physicochemical analysis evaluated characteristics such as moisture content, pH and TSS. The microbial testing validated the product's safety and shelf life. Various packing materials were examined to determine their impact on product quality and shelf life. Key findings: The Amla Jelly Millet Cake has a balanced nutritional profile with protein, fibre, vitamins, carbohydrates and ash. Physicochemical examination indicated acceptable results within allowable limits, indicating high product quality. Microbial analysis verified the product's safety and compliance with food safety regulations. Optimal packaging solutions were established to protect product quality, extend shelf life, and increase consumer appeal. In conclusion, our study successfully created an innovative Amla Jelly Millet Cake that combines flavour, nutrition, and health advantages. The findings are useful for developing and commercialising this unique product, which will help to create a healthier and more sustainable food system.

Hydroponic Systems: Best Practices for Biosecurity, Disinfection and Pest Management

Hydroponics is a soilless farming which is revolutionizing agriculture by improving yield, space utilization and water efficiency. However, microbial contamination, biofilm development and pest infestation pose major threats to food security and system sustainability. In this review we researched about cleaning, disinfection and pest control techniques used in hydroponic farming. Most efficient disinfection is sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) but we also present environmentally friendly alternatives like sodium percarbonate (SPC) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O₂). Preventing pests sustainably using integrated pest management (IPM) methodologies (e.g. physical barriers, biological controls). If hygiene techniques are properly followed through rigorous sanitization practices and adherence to food safety regulations for hydroponic systems. Future studies should focus on novel disinfection techniques to further enhance biosecurity. Hydroponic systems, however, rely on strict sanitization measures and must comply with food safety legislation to maintain their integrity.

International food safety standards and South Africa’s orange exports to key Asian markets: An analysis based on the gravity model using three-dimensional data

This paper aims to analyze the impact of food safety regulations imposed by strategic Asian countries on South Africa’s orange exports to these markets. The analysis employed a gravity model with three-dimensional data from 2003 to 2022. The model indicates that the influence of descriptive variables is significant with an f-statistic significant at the 1% level and an adjusted R-squared of 0.580 suggesting that variables account for a considerable share of variation in orange exports. It was revealed that an increase in the importer’s GDP of 1% decreases South Africa’s export performance while a rise in South Africa’s GDP enhances it. Population growth positively influences export volumes. Furthermore, the exchange rate volatility at the 5% level supports rather than hinders export growth suggesting resilience within the industry. Notably, TBT measures positively and significantly influence orange exports contrary to fears that food safety issues might impede exports. In contrast, the insignificant and negative coefficient for SPS measures suggests a counterproductive effect on South African orange exports about food safety standards. Findings highlight crucial factors that affect and enhance South Africa's orange export growth providing important insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the agricultural export sector to navigate food safety regulations and optimize export strategies.

The impact of food safety regulation on the health of middle-aged and older adults: evidence from Chinese food safety pilot cities

The impact of food safety regulation on the health of middle-aged and older adults: evidence from Chinese food safety pilot cities

Microbial quality of street prepared and vended snacks in Umuahia town, South East Nigeria

The study evaluated the microbial characteristics of street prepared and vended snacks as well as their production environment at different locations in Umuahia, Abia State. Twenty-five (25) samples of puff-puffs, buns and fish rolls as well as swaps from production tables and surrounding floors were randomly sampled from five locations within Umuahia town using the stratified random sampling procedure. One sample each of fish roll, buns, puff-puff, swab from tables and swab from floors were further randomly selected and subjected to microbial analysis using standard microbiological methods for the determination of total viable count, fungi count, Lactobacillus count, Staphylococcus, total coliform count, Salmonella/Shigella count, and Streptococcus count. Discoveries were that the snacks collected contained different microorganisms ranging from food grade types such as lactic acid bacteria to highly pathogenic types such as Staphylococcus aureus. Total viable count (28.01a×106 - 60.70c×106), fungi count (15.56a×106 - 37.35c×106), and Lactobacillus count (9.34ab×106 - 12.45c×106) were above acceptable limits; Staphylococcus was detected only in puff-puff (12.45a×106 cfu/g); total coliform count, Salmonella/Shigella count and Streptococcus count were not detected in all the snacks. Most of the microbial characteristics assessed such as total viable count (37.45a×106 - 62.25a×106) and Staphylococcus aureus (7.78a×106 - 21.0a×106 cfu/g) were present above acceptable limits both in the floor and service table; only Lactobacillus and Coliform were not detected in the floor and service table respectively. The study indicates poor microbial quality of the street-vended food and a highly contaminated production environment posing significant risks of food borne illness, and suggests a need for improved hygiene practices, monitoring and enforcement of food safety regulations.

Determination of the presence of Salmonella spp., antibiotic resistance and virulence genes in milk and dairy products

Milk and dairy products are essential food sources in human nutrition but can serve as reservoirs for pathogenic bacteria, such as Salmonella spp., posing serious public health risks. The increasing emergence of antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens further complicates food safety and infection control. This study aimed to determine the presence of Salmonella spp. in milk and dairy products, analyse the virulence genes of the isolates and evaluate their antibiotic resistance profiles. A total of 300 milk and dairy product samples (150 raw milk, 60 village cheese, 50 curd cheese and 40 butter) were collected from family businesses and local markets in Samsun, Turkey. Salmonella spp. was detected using ISO 6579 culture methods, and PCR was used to confirm the presence of the oriC gene. The virulence genes (invA, hilA, avrA and stn) were identified by PCR. Antibiotic resistance was assessed using the VITEK 2 AST‐GN97 system. Salmonella spp. was detected in 12 of 300 samples (4%), with the highest prevalence in village cheese (8.3%). Among 36 isolates, all (100%) harboured invA and hilA, while avrA (63.8%) and stn (55.5%) were less frequent. All isolates were resistant to at least two antibiotics, with the highest resistance to ampicillin (100%). The presence of Salmonella spp. in milk and dairy products, along with high rates of antibiotic resistance, highlights the need for enhanced food safety regulations, improved hygiene standards and stricter antimicrobial stewardship. Implementing effective pasteurisation and hazard control measures is crucial to reducing contamination risks and protecting public health.

Evaluation of Hygienic Practices and Microbiological Quality of Spaghetti Dishes Sold in Stalls in the Yopougon Municipality, Côte d'Ivoire

Aims: Kiosks are informal restaurants that are rapidly growing in Côte d'Ivoire, offering a variety of meals. This study focuses on the food safety practices of vendors and customers at these kiosks, as well as the microbiological load of the most sold dish, "spaghetti." The aim is to contribute to the healthiness of dishes prepared and sold at these kiosks. Methodology: Surveys were conducted to identify the main causes of health risks among 62 vendors and 78 consumers of these kiosks. The questionnaires focused on practices, attitudes and hygiene regarding food safety. Additionally, microbiological analysis of 36 samples of "spaghetti" dishes prepared in these kiosks and 24 of utensils was performed. Approximately 50g of already cooked spaghetti dishes were collected using a sterile spoon and placed in sterile bags. The analysis were carried out under international standards. Surface sampling of the utensils was performed according to ISO 18593 (2004). Results: The surveys revealed a significant representation of men (85%) in this sector. The activity was primarily conducted by uneducated individuals (73%), and the prices set are affordable for everyone. The clientele was mainly young (64%) and single (86%). Meat spaghetti represented the most sold dish. Hygiene and food safety regulations were not adhered to by kiosk operators and customers. The microbiological analysis indicated high contamination of spaghetti samples and utensils. Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, and Penicillium sp. were isolated from the utensils, while only Penicillium sp. was found in the spaghetti dish. The average loads were 6.6 ± 0.3 x 104 to 2.2 ± 0.2 x 105 CFU/g for total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, 6.8 ± 0.6 x 102 to 7.3 ± 0.5 x 104 for staphylococci, 2.8 ± 0.3 x 104 to 6.0 ± 0.1 x 104 for total coliforms, and 1.3 ± 0.1 x 104 to 1.9 ± 0.7 x 104 for thermotolerant coliforms. Furthermore, potentially pathogenic microbes (E. coli, S. aureus) were isolated, which could pose a health risk to customers. Conclusion: Thus, there remains a need for improvements in hygiene and training in good hygiene practices for kiosk operators and consumers. we plan to conduct a similar study in formal restaurants.

Multimodal Deep Learning-Based Intelligent Food Safety Detection and Traceability System

Food safety has become a critical global issue, requiring effective solutions to reduce health risks and economic losses. The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning (DL) provides new opportunities to address this challenge. This study presents a multimodal food safety detection system that integrates computer vision (CV), natural language processing (NLP), and sensor data analysis to comprehensively monitor food contamination, quality deterioration, and supply chain security. Specifically, the Swin Transformer model is employed for surface defect detection, while temporal convolutional networks (TCN) predict storage environment conditions. Additionally, blockchain and federated learning technologies are incorporated to establish a secure and efficient data-sharing framework, enabling cross-supply chain collaboration and enhancing traceability accuracy. Experimental results show that the system achieves an accuracy rate of over 98% in food contamination detection and supply chain anomaly monitoring, significantly improving food safety management. This study offers a practical and innovative approach to enhancing intelligent food safety regulation.

Enhancing food safety regulation and assurance systems in the beef value chain of Bangladesh

Enhancing food safety regulation and assurance systems in the beef value chain of Bangladesh

Creation of Codex Alimentarius and its impact on the establishment of international food safety rules

The article is dedicated to the history of the creation of the Codex Alimentarius and its crucial role in regulating food safety standards at the international level. This document is a unique compilation of standards, guidelines, and recommendations aimed at protecting consumer health and ensuring fair practices in the trade of food products. The Codex Alimentarius holds special significance as it represents the culmination of a long process of developing food safety norms that have evolved over millennia. It is known that the first written food safety rules appeared in the national legislations of individual countries. Historical sources indicate that some of these norms were introduced as early as 2000 BCE. Their primary purpose was to guarantee the safety of food consumption, prevent consumer fraud, and ensure fair trading conditions. However, with the growth of international trade, the need arose to establish universally accepted standards that could provide a unified approach to food safety on a global scale. This necessity became the foundation for the creation of the Codex Alimentarius, which was officially adopted in 1963. The Codex Alimentarius is the result of the collaborative efforts of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The Codex Alimentarius Commission, functioning as an auxiliary body for the implementation of international standards, brings together hundreds of member countries, underscoring its global scale and importance. Today, the Codex includes an extensive array of norms, standards, and recommendations that cover a wide range of issues – from product quality requirements to the regulation of technological processes in food production. The importance of the Codex Alimentarius also lies in its impact on international trade in food products. Unified standards help eliminate trade barriers, ensure equal conditions for all market participants, and enhance consumer trust in products supplied from different parts of the world. Due to its universality and comprehensive regulatory coverage, the Codex remains a key document in the system of international cooperation in the field of food safety.

The Role of Mycotoxins in Reproductive health: Mechanisms, Evidence, and Clinical Implications

Importance Infertility is a global health issue with multiple causes, including environmental factors. Mycotoxins—secondary metabolites produced by fungi—are increasingly recognized as potential contributors to reproductive dysfunction. Objective This review explores the impact of mycotoxins on reproductive health, examining their role in fertility impairment through mechanisms such as hormone disruption, gametogenesis impairment, and uterine toxicity. Evidence Review Mycotoxins are widespread in food and the environment, posing health risks that extend beyond known carcinogenic and immunotoxin effects. Exposure to mycotoxins such as ochratoxin A (OTA) and zearalenone (ZEA) has been linked to epigenetic alterations, endocrine disruption, and direct cellular damage in reproductive tissues. These findings are supported by epidemiological data, animal models, and experimental research, emphasizing regional variations in exposure due to differences in agricultural practices and food contamination. Findings Mycotoxin exposure is associated with adverse reproductive outcomes, including reduced sperm quality, menstrual irregularities, and increased miscarriage risk. The biological mechanisms involve oxidative stress, hormone dysregulation, and direct toxicity to gametes and reproductive organs. Conclusion and Relevance Reducing mycotoxin exposure through dietary precautions, improved food safety regulations, and environmental controls may help protect reproductive health. Further research is needed to clarify exposure thresholds and develop targeted interventions.

Food Safety in the Protection of the Right to Consumer

This right to safe food is one of consumers' most important fundamental rights. This issue is directly related to human health and life, the preservation and development of the human race, and the process of international development and integration. Ensuring food safety is currently a topic that has been paid attention to internationally as well as nationally. On a global scale, food safety issues are a significant concern addressed by the world community through many signed international agreements and conventions on ensuring food hygiene and safety. In Vietnam, food safety is one of the most urgent issues in the context of economic development and world integration, which garners concern from the whole society. Although the Vietnamese government has gradually improved the legal system regulating food safety, the situation regarding violations of food safety laws is still quite complicated. The article addresses the need to ensure the right to food safety to consumers, and analyzes the provisions of international and Vietnamese law on this right. From there, recommendations are proposed to countries to improve efficiency in ensuring food safety for consumers.KEYWORDS: Food safety, Right to use safe food, International law, Vietnamese law.

Assessing aflatoxin exposure in the United Arab Emirates (UAE): Biomonitoring AFM1 levels in urine samples and their association with dietary habits.

Aflatoxins, known for their carcinoginc properties and produced by Aspergillus fungi, pose a substantial threat to public health, particularly in regions with hot and humid climates, where individuals are exposed to these toxins through contaminated food. The primary objective of this study was to assess the extent of aflatoxin exposure in the Emirate of Sharjah employing Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) as a biomarker in urine samples from adult participants. Furthermore, this study aimed to explore the relationship between dietary habits and AFM1 levels in order to establish a potential link. In a cross-sectional study design, a total of 144 adults (73 females and 71 males) were recruited for participation. The urine samples obtained from participants were subjected to analysis for AFM1 concentrations utilizing the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Additionally, structured questionnaires were administered to collect information on the dietary and lifestyle habits of the participants. To explore the relationship between dietary factors and AFM1 levels, various statistical analyses, including linear regression and the Mann-Whitney U test, were performed. AFM1 was detected in 69 % of the samples under invstigation, wherein males exhibited a higher mean level (0.912 ng/mg creatinine) in comparison to females (0.676 ng/mg creatinine). The overall mean concentration of AFM1 was determined to be 0.792 ng/mg creatinine. It is worth noting that there was a significant correlation between rice consumption and heightened AFM1 exposure among males, while no such correlation was observed among females. This study conducted in the UAE provides novel perspectives on aflatoxin exposure, shedding light on the gender-specific correlation between rice consumption and aflatoxin levels among males. These findings hold significant implications for guiding public health interventions and underscore the pivotal role of ongoing surveillance and stringent food safety regulations in mitigating the hazards associated with aflatoxin contamination.

National Regulations and Management Systems for Implementation and Monitoring of Food Safety in Iran: A Narrative Review of Literature

Abstract The countries establish and enforce food safety regulations to safeguard the health and well-being of their citizens worldwide. Iran has enacted a new regulation on food safety for expansion a national food safety control system and diminishing the national and international concerns. However, a rapid understanding of the management system is lacking in Iran. This study aimed to discuss the components of the food safety management system (FSMS) in Iran and present the weakness and strengths of the Iranian food monitoring structure. For this purpose, it was conducted a narrative review of articles referenced in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Irandoc, and the Iranian Scientific Information Database until February 1, 2024. Furthermore, it was included websites and review papers in Persian and English that describe strategies of national and international FSMS and protocols in different countries. It was concluded that there is a gap in the integrated tracking system throughout the food chain and a single organization responsible for monitoring the food chain to prevent parallelism. This study provides comprehensive suggestions and recommendations to improve the structure of the legislative organization to ensure safe and qualified foods to consumers in Iran.

Utilising consumer reviews for passive surveillance of foodborne illnesses: insights and challenges from the Indian restaurant

This study explores the feasibility of leveraging consumer reviews for passive surveillance of foodborne illnesses, drawing parallels with pharmacovigilance systems. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review, qualitative interviews with key stakeholders, and quantitative analysis of 56,000 restaurant reviews using a bidirectional encoder representation from transformers (BERT-based) aspect-based sentiment analysis model, the study seeks to understand the potential of social media data in enhancing food safety regulations. Despite the promise shown by the aspect-based analysis in identifying hygiene-related concerns, challenges such as data reliability, language diversity, and the absence of verifiable evidence limit the direct application of consumer reviews for regulatory purposes. Key informants highlighted the need for a tailored surveillance system, considering the Indian restaurant industry’s diversity and scale. The quantitative analysis revealed hygiene concerns in a significant portion of reviews, yet the specificity and verifiability of these complaints remain issues. The study suggests a cautious yet optimistic approach towards integrating social media data into foodborne illness surveillance, emphasizing the enhancement of traditional reporting mechanisms, targeted awareness campaigns, and industry collaboration. The findings advocate for a comprehensive strategy that includes developing a common platform for stakeholder communication and strengthening policy frameworks to support a collaborative surveillance system, particularly in developing contexts like India.

Deterministic and probabilistic health risk assessment of α-chaconine and α-solanine in potato products consumed in Korea.

This study aimed to assess the health risks of α-chaconine and α-solanine, glycoalkaloids (GAs) commonly found in potatoes, in the Korean population using both deterministic and probabilistic approaches. A total of 146 potato samples, including raw and processed varieties, were analyzed for these GAs using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array method. GAs were detected in 63.0% of samples, with concentrations ranging from 2.29 to 172.19mgkg-1. Deterministic risk assessments, based on daily dietary exposure estimates, indicated that the 1-2-year-old age group had the highest exposure to these compounds. Although the margin of exposure (MOE) values for most age groups exceeded 10, indicating low health risk, the MOE values for the 1-2-year-old group fell below 10 in certain scenarios, such as the 95th percentile extreme exposure, raising potential safety concerns. Probabilistic risk assessment using Monte Carlo simulations provided a more refined evaluation by accounting for variability in consumption patterns. This study underscores the importance of using both approaches for a thorough risk assessment, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children. Further research on GA levels in processed potatoes is recommended to better understand exposure and mitigate risks. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This research helps ensure the safety of potato products by evaluating the health risks of GAs found in potatoes. The findings highlight the need to monitor GA levels and could guide food safety regulations and industry practices to protect vulnerable groups, such as young children, from potential risks.

An empirical study on LLM-based classification of requirements-related provisions in food-safety regulations

An empirical study on LLM-based classification of requirements-related provisions in food-safety regulations

An Analysis of the Effectiveness of Food Quality and Safety Management Systems in Oman’s Food Supply Chain

The study examined the impact of information technology, food traceability, and safety regulations on supply chain performance. It also highlights the critical role of risk management. The study focused on the complex relationships among information technology, food traceability, supply chain risks, performance measures, and food safety regulations, exploring how these elements jointly shape the efficiency of the food supply chain. The study adopted a positivist research paradigm in the data collection, analysis, and discussion. Data analysis was undertaken by Smart PLS software to conduct structural equation modeling (SEM). Adopting information technology is critical for improving Oman’s food supply chain. The research findings indicate that traceability and risk management, while significant factors, do not independently demonstrate a statistically significant enhancement of performance. Additionally, the study suggests that performance measures are detrimental to improving supply chain performance and traceability in the food industry. The study also reveals that while food traceability enhances the adoption of information technology, its effect on the overall supply chain performance is not statistically significant. Managing risks within Oman’s food industry is closely related to adopting and using information technology, which is critical in establishing effective and robust risk management strategies. The study recommends that the Oman food industry should invest in advanced information technology and strengthen regulatory compliance to guarantee food safety—continuous improvement in food measures, comprehensive performance metrics, and proactive risk management strategies.

Digital microfluidic-based fluorescence methods for the automated determination of copper ions in wine.

Anovel approach is introducedby combining digital microfluidic technology with click chemistry for automated sample handling on a chip, enabling accurate detection of copper ions in wine. By developing a copper-catalyzed click chemistry reaction using azide coumarin and hexanol, we have introduced a method that offers advantages such as simplicity, minimal by-products, and enhanced resistance to interference compared with other fluorescent methods. Furthermore, optimization of the digital microfluidic chip parameters enabled processing of sub-microliter samples with a droplet coefficient of variation of 0.6%, outperforming the ~ 4.0% error typically seen with conventional pipetting methods. This method processes samples as small as 870 nL, providing cost efficiency, automated detection, reduced errors, and a detection limit of 15.4μM (0.98mg/L), meeting testing requirements. Our approach effectively detects copper ion contamination in wine with a recovery of 98.7 to 106%, offering robust technical support for food safety regulations.