In June, CFA Director General Karin Goodburn was invited to present to members of the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF), who are currently reviewing the risk basis of FSA’s guidance on the control of non-proteolytic Clostridium botulinum in vacuum packed and modified atmosphere packed chilled foods. ACMSF offers expert advice to the UK Government.
The ACMSF sub-group is specifically focusing on toxin production and growth of botulinum toxin-producing Clostridia in chilled foods. Karin set out research and other work carried out over the last 30 years including by industry with Government funding (e.g. SUSSLE). Included in the session were a series of questions from the sub-group on subjects ranging from fridge temperatures to accessibility of relevant research. Karin’s presentation was well[1]received and further involvement invited. A full report from the sub-group is expected in the first half of 2023.
October 2022