whole genome sequencing
Description:
Visualisation of the entire genetic makeup of a particular organism
Context:
Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is a method that reads the complete DNA of a microorganism, like bacteria, to see its entire genetic makeup. In food safety, this helps scientists identify exactly which strain is present, track where it came from, and see if it carries traits like antibiotic resistance or increased virulence.
EFSA uses WGS to monitor and investigate foodborne outbreaks, trace contamination through the food chain, and detect emerging threats. It allows EFSA to link cases across countries, understand how pathogens spread, and provide precise scientific advice to protect public health.
Related topics
Advances in biotechnology Antimicrobial resistance Avian influenza Campylobacter Foodborne zoonotic diseases Listeria Monitoring of foodborne diseases New genomic techniques Non-foodborne zoonotic diseases Salmonella Shiga toxin-producing E. coli outbreak(s) West Nile Virus Whole genome sequencing in foodborne outbreaks