ILSI NA: IAFP 2015: Whole genome sequencing for surveillance of the food supply.

The Rise of the Genomes II: Practical Integration of Whole Genome Sequencing into Food Safety

Sunday, July 26, 2015 from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM

Conveners: Peter Gerner-Smidt, CDC, & Deann Akins-Lewenthal, ConAgra Foods, Inc.

Whole genome sequencing is an emerging technology that has moved from research to practical food safety application at the speed of lightning. The technology has now moved into real-time surveillance in public health and food regulation, and the food industry is picking up. This symposium follows up where last year’s, “The Rise of the Genomes” symposium ended: Can whole genome sequencing really replace practical microbiology? Do we need epidemiology in the investigation of food safety emergencies any longer? What have we learned in the past year? Have all expectations been met? What are the gaps? Public health is overly excited with whole genome sequencing but is this revolution good or bad news for the food industry?

Whole genome sequencing for surveillance of the food supply – stopping outbreaks before they appear!

(how real-time WGS of isolates from the food supply and recalled products have averted illnesses- e.g. Listeria lettuce recall, Listeria stone fruit outbreak, Listeria mung bean sprouts, Salmonella peanut butter)

Presenter: Peter Evans, FDA/CFSAN