Understanding the origin and spread of pathogenic contamination is vital for maintaining food safety. In vulnerable groups, such as infants, the elderly or immunocompromised individuals, foodborne outbreaks caused by these pathogens can be severe or fatal. Accurate detection and tracking is essential for prevention and control.
Eurofins Food Testing UK offers advanced pathogen tracking through our competence centres using Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), a powerful tool to help trace contamination events involving organisms such as Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella, and Cronobacter.
Why track pathogens with WGS?
Food manufacturers are under increasing pressure to manage risks related to pathogenic microorganisms. Environmental monitoring and product testing may confirm contamination, but understanding the route and persistence of such organisms requires more advanced methods. WGS offers a much higher resolution than traditional methods such as serotyping, enabling precise identification of strain lineages and contamination patterns.
How WGS works
Our Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) WGS metagenomic method involves sequencing and comparing the full genomes of isolates taken from the food product, environment, or equipment. By analysing millions of base pairs and identifying single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we determine the genetic relatedness between isolates, helping you identify whether contamination came from a single event or a persistent environmental source.
High-resolution mapping with Eurofins WGS
Our NGS-WGS solutions include
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Genome sequencing and SNP comparison across >5 million base pairs
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Rapid turnaround; results typically within 7 days*
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Secure archiving of isolate history
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Full interpretive report with clear explanations
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Expert support from Eurofins microbiologists and molecular biologists through our consultancy services can provide support; from sampling to result interpretation
*Note: We are continuously developing new methodologies to meet evolving needs. For details on accreditation status and turnaround times for specialist testing, please contact your local Eurofins Food Testing UK laboratory as some services are delivered locally, while others may be delivered through our network of Eurofins Laboratories and Competence Centres.
Supported pathogens
This service is ideal for tracking Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and Cronobacter spp., including in high-risk facilities such as those producing ready-to-eat foods, dairy products, or infant formula.
Integrate with your food safety system
WGS can support root cause analysis, corrective actions, and long-term improvements in food safety management. Our experts can work alongside your team to integrate this information into your environmental monitoring programme and risk assessments.
To learn more or discuss how WGS could help you trace and prevent contamination in your facility, call us on +44 (0) 845 604 6740 or submit an enquiry.
