Analysis Method in Focus: DNA PathoTracker
Next Generation Sequencing Used to Accurately Track Contaminations
Feb. 2020. Eurofins has developed and launched a new DNA-based tracking service for global monitoring of pathogens in food samples. Utilising state-of-the-art Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, the offering called DNA PathoTracker will allow to identify, respond to, and in the future minimise harmful pathogen outbreaks and costly recall situations.
The DNA Pathotracker Traceability Programme
Mapping contamination instances is particularly important in preventing food recalls, which are both extremely costly and reputationally damaging situations for affected brands. By implementing the DNA PathoTracker traceability programme, a company can better predict and potentially prevent such events and in parallel demonstrate their commitment to the safety of their products.
Detection of the Sources of Contamination
Next Generation Sequencing, and particularly Whole Genome Sequencing, has been globally accepted as the most accurate high resolution subtyping technique, with demonstrated superior sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional methods. Using this technique on pathogenic bacterial strains provides unrivalled insight into their genetic relationship. This genomic information, combined with data such as the date and place of findings, can help track down the exact sources of contamination and therefore avoid large scale recalls.
Global Relevance
We believe that pathogen traceability is becoming increasingly important given the growing interlinks in global supply chains. DNA PathoTracker has been developed by Eurofins Genomics Europe to support the food industry to respond faster and with more accuracy than ever before when faced with a contamination event.
