Microbial Food Safety. Contaminated food sickens 1 in 10 people globally, causing 450,000 deaths, with 1/3 of the deaths in children under 5 years of age. Advancing microbial food safety requires innovative research to detect, control, and prevent foodborne pathogens. Current efforts focus on developing rapid molecular and genomic methods, such as whole genome sequencing and metagenomics, to identify bacterial contaminants in food and water. Studies on antimicrobial resistance track the emergence and spread of resistant strains, informing strategies to mitigate risks in food production. Research also explores microbial ecology in various food systems, examining how pathogens interact with processing environments and the gut microbiota. Cutting-edge technologies, including in vitro digestion models and bioinformatics tools, are used to assess pathogen behavior, survival, and virulence. These efforts contribute to global food safety by improving outbreak response, shaping regulatory policies, and supporting industry practices that reduce contamination risks and enhance public health protection.

Enhancing the quality and functionality of dairy products is essential for food safety, nutrition, and sustainability. Understanding microbial communities in yogurt, milk powders, and cheese helps improve production, control spoilage, and ensure safety from pathogens like Listeria and Salmonella. Investigating probiotics and their interactions with gut microbiota can reveal health benefits, while studying food additives and fermentation processes enhances ingredient functionality. By optimizing dairy production and repurposing processing byproducts, we can create safer, more nutritious foods while promoting sustainability in the food industry.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global concern that directly impacts food safety and public health. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in agriculture and food production contribute to the development of resistant bacteria, which can spread through the food chain, making infections harder to treat. Ensuring food safety involves implementing strict antimicrobial stewardship, improving hygiene and sanitation practices in food production, and monitoring resistance patterns. By addressing AMR, we can protect public health, maintain the effectiveness of antibiotics, and promote a safer, more sustainable food system.

The One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, making it essential for ensuring food safety. By integrating expertise from multiple disciplines—such as veterinary medicine, microbiology, and environmental science—One Health helps identify and mitigate risks at every stage of the food supply chain. By addressing food safety through a One Health lens, we can develop sustainable solutions that protect public health while promoting safe agricultural and food production practices.