Science Meets Policy: From Regulation to Practice – Turning WGS into Action for Foodborne Outbreak Investigation
Web streaming
Background
The Science Meets Policy conference series highlights the EU’s ongoing support for the use of whole genome sequencing (WGS) data in foodborne pathogen surveillance and outbreak investigation. Since its launch in 2020, substantial progress has been made, including strengthened laboratory capabilities among Member States and the establishment of the joint EFSA–ECDC One Health WGS system, which has been operational since 2022.
Following the second edition in 2023, which highlighted the importance of methodologies and standards, as well as the absence of a legal framework, a notable milestone was reached with the adoption of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/179 concerning the sharing of WGS data on foodborne pathogens associated with foodborne outbreaks. This Regulation entered into force on 23 August 2026.
Building on previous successes, EFSA and the Inter-European Union Reference Laboratories (EURLs) Working Group on Next Generation Sequencing once again joined forces to host the third edition of the Science Meets Policy conference. The event focused on key technical and policy challenges, highlighting practical approaches to support competent authorities in implementing the new regulatory framework effectively. It also explored how food business operators can contribute to data sharing and work collaboratively with these authorities.
Objectives of the event
The event aimed to:
- Engage with competent authorities of EU countries on the practical implementation of mandatory requirements under Regulation (EU) 2025/179;
- Connect with food industries as crucial data holders and highlight the contribution of their WGS data to food safety;
- Share examples of collaboration between countries’ competent authorities and food industries across the EU;
- Clarify regulatory and technical requirements for WGS data generation and sharing to enable a clear understanding from food industries;
Structure of the event
During the first afternoon session, attention was given to the new regulatory framework for WGS data sharing at EU level, including discussion of the EFSA–ECDC One Health WGS system and considerations regarding laboratory accreditation. This was complemented by examples illustrating collaboration between competent authorities and the food industry.
On the following morning, the agenda focused on the pivotal role of the food industry as a principal data holder. Presentations from food industry representatives addressed practical experiences, as well as regulatory and technical challenges. The event concluded with a moderated panel discussion featuring both competent authorities and industry representatives, designed to identify opportunities, challenges and key takeaways regarding the sharing and use of WGS data.
Contact
Please do not hesitate to contact the organising committee at events [at] efsa.europa.eu (events[at]efsa[dot]europa[dot]eu) for further information.