The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will organize a workshop later this year on using Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) for food security management.
The event aims to discuss the application of WSG in national food security and target government sector professionals from developing countries, as within these nations, the use of WSG has been low, according to FAO.
The event intends to help with guidance on understanding the use of WSG in food safety, its benefits, drawbacks, and challenges for countries with limited resources.
Individuals have until February 17 to apply for a place, and FAO will select participants from 10 to 12 low- and middle-income countries.
Also, from April 18-20, FAO will discuss the needs and applications of technology to improve food security at a special event in Italy.
Meanwhile, the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Meetings on Microbiological Risk Assessment (JEMRA) announced the selection of 93 scientific experts from 33 countries from 2023 to 2027.
The list features 20 U.S.-based individuals, including Arie Havelaar, William Burkhardt, Kathleen Gensheimer, Donald Schaffner, John Mark Carter, Clare Narrod, and Todd Callaway.
Members will be considered for JEMRA activities, such as meetings, preparation of review papers, and peer reviews, following the required expertise. They participate as individuals, not as representatives of their countries, governments, employers, or organizations. Experts are required to declare any potential interests associated with the topics under consideration.
JEMRA provides scientific advice on microbiological hazards, including risk management options to improve food safety.
News Desk. (2023c, February 3rd). FAO to hold a workshop on WGS for developing countries. Food Safety News. https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2023/02/fao-to-hold-workshop-on-wgs-for-developing-countries/
