Next generation techniques for microbiological and chemical food safety

Over recent years there have been significant advances in analytical techniques to provide rapid results, greater sensitivity and the detection of emerging food safety risks. This project will provide the opportunity to assess the use of these next generation technologies to assist in ensuring product quality and safety from a chemical and microbiological perspective. The inbuilt flexibility within the project will allow the provision of timely responses to emerging issues that may occur during the 3 year period. This would allow the multidisciplinary team to collate and disseminate important information as well as developing and validating new methods where necessary. Previous projects in this field have enabled the introduction of additional services to our analytical portfolio, including detection of STEC in sprouted seeds, detection of food borne viruses, and improved taint analysis.