In the news

In the EU, a new regulation was adopted requiring WGS for 5 pathogens (Regulation EU 2025/179 https://food.ec.europa.eu/document/download/bb6b197a-cce2-4ebf-aca2-ebb6696c803f_en). The rationale behind the regulation is to help in the timely detection of the causes of outbreaks. The regulation will be effective after August 23, 2026. The pathogens included are Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Campylobacter jejuni, and Campylobacter coli. Member States are required to transmit the WGS results to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The regulation document answers frequently asked questions. @ https://food.ec.europa.eu/document/download/bb6b197a-cce2-4ebf-aca2-ebb6696c803f_en

The FSA reported that Lidl GB is recalling Sol & Mar Chicharricos BBQ Pork Scratchings 100 g because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. The recall applies to products with best before dates ranging from August 5, 2025, through to August 12, 2025. The supermarket chain has taken this action after identifying the potential presence of Salmonella in the pork scratchings. Lidl GB is recalling the Sol & Mar Chicharricos BBQ Pork Scratchings, 100g, @ https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-15-2025

The Food Standards Australia reported that two of Australia’s biggest supermarkets have recalled some salad products due to fears of potential contamination with STEC. The agency has issued an alert about several Fresh Salad Co Baby Spinach products sold at Aldi stores due to potential microbial (STEC) contamination. The recalled products have been available for sale in ALDI Stores in QLD and some stores in Northern NSW (Tweed Heads South, Ballina, Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Lismore, Casino, Toormina, Armidale, Byron Bay, Goonellabah, Tweed Mall, Moonee Beach). A second alert for a selection of salad products sold at Woolworths was followed. The Aldi recall applies to products sold in Queensland and some stores in Northern NSW. @ https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/food-recalls/recall-alert/updated-280325-aldi-stores-fresh-salad-co-various-baby-spinach-products

Food Standards Australia and New Zealand reported that Woolworths recalled fresh cut salads. The product(s) have been available for sale online (QLD and Northern NSW) and in store. The products have been available for sale online and in-store in both Queensland and northern NSW. Also available at Woolworths Supermarkets and Woolworths Metro in QLD and Northern NSW (Tweed City, Tweed Heads, Ballina Fair, Ballina River Street, Byron Bay, Cabarita, Casino, Goonellabah, Kingscliff, Lennox Head, Lismore Central, Lismore Square, Mullumbimby). The recall is due to E. Coli STEC contamination. The products have been available for sale in independent retailers, including IGA in ACT, NSW, and Queensland, as well as Drakes stores in Queensland. @ https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/food-recalls/recall-alert/updated-260325-woolworths-various-fresh-cut-salad-products