Challenge Test as Special Tool to Estimate the Dynamic of and Other Foodborne Pathogens.

Over 23 million cases of foodborne disease (FBD) occur in Europe each year, with over 4700 deaths. Outbreaks of FBD have a significant impact on our society due to the high economic losses they cause (hospital treatment of affected patients and destruction of contaminated food). Among its health objectives, the European Union has set itself the goal of reducing the incidence of the main FBDs, approving various regulations that codify requirements in order to produce food that is "safe" for human consumption.

Distribution of spp. on Carcasses of Regularly Slaughtered Swine for Italian Dry Cured Ham.

Swine carcasses are often contaminated with spp. Heads are more contaminated than shoulders and thighs. Lairage time higher than 10 h is a risk factor for spp.