New trends in emerging pathogens

Area of Science:

• Food Safety and Microbiology
• Emerging Pathogen Research
• Food Technology Impact

Background:

• Emerging pathogens pose significant risks throughout the food chain, influenced by evolving food production technologies.
• Microbial adaptability, including the formation of viable but non-culturable (VBNC) forms and contagious resistance, complicates pathogen detection and control.
• Factors such as quorum sensing in pathogens like Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) and the opportunistic emergence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae highlight complex microbial behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the impact of food production technologies on the emergence of various foodborne pathogens.
• To explore microbial strategies, such as VBNC formation and stress-induced resistance, that contribute to pathogen emergence.
• To discuss the role of hygiene, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) in mitigating risks associated with emerging pathogens.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of scientific literature on emerging foodborne pathogens and their association with food production technologies.
• Review of studies on microbial physiology, including VBNC states, stress responses, and quorum sensing.
• Examination of epidemiological data related to outbreaks and the role of primary production hygiene.

Main Results:

• Food technologies can facilitate the establishment of new pathogens (e.g., Yersinia, Campylobacter, Enterobacter sakazakii, prions).
• Microbial stress responses can lead to cross-resistance, impacting food preservation methods like minimally processed foods.
• Hygiene in primary production and adherence to GMP/HACCP are critical for controlling pathogens like Cyclospora cayetanensis and Norovirus.

Conclusions:

• Understanding emerging pathogens requires advanced methods like culture-independent techniques to detect VBNC forms.
• Contagious resistance and quorum sensing are key microbial factors in pathogen emergence and colonization.
• Effective food safety strategies must integrate technological advancements with stringent hygiene practices and clear consumer communication regarding food production and new technologies.