Biotraceability in Food and Feed Chains--Course Descriptions

Introduction to Biotraceability

Overview
The interface between pathogen testing and tracing systems in food production is crucial if we are to improve tracing of the origin of accidental or deliberate microbial contamination of feed and food. As part of that, it is essential to model the development of contamination from the point of entry to the point of detection, and beyond. Modelling is important not only to trace the origin of the contamination, but also to inform the food/feed producers of the appropriate corrective actions to protect the consumer. A complete chain approach is needed, beginning with sampling and ending with recommendations for control measures, well-justified and targeted product recalls, timely activation of rapid alert systems and proper emergency responses. Biotracing can help the food producers to know exactly what is coming into the factory and what is leaving the factory.

15:30-15:45     Welcome, overview and student introductions     Jeffrey Skiby
15:45-16:05     Introduction to Biotraceability                            Kieran Jordan
16:05-16:15     break
16:15-17:00     Rapid Methods                                                  Jeffrey Hoorfar
17:00-17:30     Questions and discussion

Pre-workshop Required Reading*

Biotraceability Manuscript
An introduction to biotracing and appropriate quantifications - "An introduction to biotracing in food chain systems" G.C. Barker, N. Gomez, J. Smid Trends in Food Science and Technology http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2009.03.002
Analyzing a bioterror attack on the food supply: The case of botulinum toxin in milk, Lawrence M. Wein and Yifan Liu

*Required for PhD students.