Microbial Safety of Foods in the Supply Chain and Food Security

Abstract

Most foodborne outbreaks in recent years have been linked to microbial contamination of food
products. These food outbreaks can cause considerable food losses, and hence can play a role
in global food insecurity. We discuss the importance of microbial food safety in the supply
chain to reduce the potential for contamination. Microbial contamination may take place at prefarming,
farming or post-farming stages of the food supply chain. Campylobacter, Salmonella,
Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and non-O157:H7 STEC E. coli are the
most common pathogenic bacteria associated with food safety issues in the food supply chain.
Efficient process controls and effective food safety management systems are vital elements to
reduce microbial contamination and improve food security.