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Abstract

Predictive microbiology is considered in the context of the conference theme “chance, innovation and challenge”, together with the impact of quantitative approaches on food microbiology, generally. The contents of four prominent texts on predictive microbiology are analysed and the major contributions of two meat microbiologists, Drs. T.A. Roberts and C.O. Gill, to the early development of predictive microbiology are highlighted. These provide a segue into R&D trends in predictive microbiology, including the Refrigeration Index, an example of science-based, outcome-focussed food safety regulation.

Rapid advances in technologies and systems for application of predictive models are indicated and measures to judge the impact of predictive microbiology are suggested in terms of research outputs and outcomes. The penultimate section considers the future of predictive microbiology and advances that will become possible when data on population responses are combined with data derived from physiological and molecular studies in a systems biology approach.

Whilst the emphasis is on science and technology for food safety management, it is suggested that decreases in foodborne illness will also arise from minimising human error by changing the food safety culture.

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	McMeekin, TA
Keywords:	Predictive microbiology; Quantitative microbial ecology; Current R&D trends; Applications; Advances in technology; Human error and the food safety culture
Journal or Publication Title:	Meat Science
Publisher:	Elsevier BV
ISSN:	0309-1740
DOI / ID Number:	10.1016/j.meatsci.2007.04.005
Additional Information:	The definitive version is available at http://www.sciencedirect.com
Item Statistics:	View statistics for this item

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