Wastewater monitoring for surveillance of foodborne pathogens
As a qualified Environmental Health Officer (EHO), I advise clients on appropriate onsite wastewater systems and assist food business owners during foodborne illness investigations.
I recently shared this podcast called Wastewater Monitoring for Foodborne Pathogen Surveillance on my Facebook page. In this episode of Food Safety Matters, they discuss wastewater samples from Pennsylvania and the usefulness of wastewater monitoring for surveillance of foodborne pathogens, including salmonella.
As someone working closely with food businesses, this kind of innovation in surveillance is exactly the kind of insight I integrate into my compliance and advisory work.
Are you ready to take the next step?
If you’re looking for expert guidance to navigate food safety compliance, regulatory requirements, or business strategy, I’m here to help. With experience as an Environmental Health Officer, Medical Scientist, majoring in medical microbiology, and MBA-qualified consultant, I provide practical advice tailored to your unique challenges.
Book a complimentary 30-minute consultation to discuss your needs and explore how I can support your food business success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is wastewater-based surveillance?
Wastewater-based surveillance is the monitoring of wastewater to detect and track microorganisms shed by people within a community or facility. It provides population-level insights into the presence and trends of pathogens without requiring individual testing.
Which foodborne pathogens can be detected?
Depending on the analytical methods used, wastewater monitoring can detect a range of foodborne pathogens, including the following:
- Salmonellosis (Salmonella spp.)
- Campylobacteriosis (Campylobacter spp.)
- Pathogenic Escherichia coli (e.g., STEC)
- Listeria monocytogenes
- Shigella spp.
- Other bacterial, viral, or parasitic targets as required.
How does wastewater monitoring detect Salmonella?
Samples are collected from wastewater systems and analysed using molecular methods such as PCR or qPCR. These techniques detect genetic markers associated with Salmonella, allowing laboratories to estimate presence and trends over time.
About the Author
Barbara Bielecki is a food safety and compliance consultant with a unique combination of qualifications: Environmental Health Officer, Medical Scientist (majoring in Medical Microbiology), and MBA-qualified business consultant. This rare blend of regulatory insight, scientific expertise and business strategy enables Barbara Bielecki to help food businesses prevent cross-contamination, reduce risk, stay compliant, and protect their brand and revenue.
