PathOrganic
Work packages
WP 1: Current practice and harmonization of methods
In WP 1 a conceptual model for pathogen transfer to selected plants is built based on the investigation of current practices of manure-derived fertilizer application in organic plant production. The model takes into consideration nationally different manure application practices and will be the basis for the final microbiological risk assessment model (to be developed in WP4).
In the individual countries, current practices of manure derived fertilizer application are inquired and protocols are developed for sampling and for the application of microbiological techniques for pathogen detection and quantification in complex biological matrices. Questionnaires are set up by FiBL including input from all partners concerning local requirements.
WP 2: Surveys of food-borne pathogens
The aim of WP 2 is to identify high–risk vegetables in organic production and to identify potential exacerbating factors. Incidence and levels of enteric pathogens (pathogenic E. coli, various serovars of S. enterica, L. monocytogenes, C. jejeuni, and S. aureus) associated with selected vegetables are determined and the prevalence of pathogens in diverse amendments (e.g. manure, compost, slurry) used in organic production systems are assessed to pin-point potential sources of contamination.
WP 3: Mechanistic description of food contamination with human pathogens
The aim of WP3 is to study those factors in detail which potentially lead to the contamination of organic plant produce with human pathogens. Factors which in WP2 have been implied to be problematic are subjected to more detailed analysis so that risk mitigation strategies may be developed. Interactions between microbial strains representing major food pathogens and various plant cultivars used in organic farming are studied in detail, because different plant species and genotypes usually interact very specifically with microorganisms. In particular, research within WP3 addresses pathogen transfer and survival in association with multiple modes of usage of animal-derived fertilizers. Greenhouse/growth chamber/phytotron experiments are carried out at several participating laboratories using soils from various European long-term organic field experiments in different geographic regions. The persistence in soil and plant uptake of human pathogens which have been applied to manure in different concentrations are studied in detail. Based on the information from WPs 1 to 3 a quantitative microbiological risk assessment is performed by the Danish project partner.
WP 4: Final Risk Assessment, Communication and Recommendations
The overall aim of WP4 is to summarize all findings referring to critical control points and potential risks in organic vegetable production (WP 2 and 3) and to elaborate specific recommendations. A model for risk assessment of human pathogen spread and persistence is adjusted in collaboration with project participants and stakeholders in order to ensure the relevance of the project for organic plant production.
A final workshop (within the last six months) with organic producers, European organic producer organizations, marketing chain representatives and politicians will be held to discuss the critical control points and recommendations and to check the suitability of the proposed risk model. Contacts with stakeholders will also ensure that the results of the research will be communicated to the real world.