Information on STEC – Pathogenic Escherichia coli in Food

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Apr 25, 2024 - Foods

Information on STEC – Pathogenic Escherichia coli in Food

The presence of E. coli in food is often also evaluated as an indicator of potential health hazard due to the fecal origin of these germs, as contamination with pathogens of fecal origin may also be present.
Some strains of E. coli, such as STEC (Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli), VTEC (Verotoxin-producing E. coli), or EHEC (Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli), can cause serious foodborne illnesses. In addition to the classical gastrointestinal complaints associated with food infections and intoxications (vomiting, diarrhea, fever, …), illnesses caused by EHEC strains can lead to HUS syndrome (hemolytic-uremic syndrome) with kidney failure and death as a consequence.

The presence of these pathogenic Escherichia coli strains is undesirable in ready-to-eat foods and should be regarded as a potential health risk. Since these infections can, in part, have severe, life-threatening consequences up to and including death, these pathogens are feared in foods. Appropriate measures must be taken when living STEC/VTEC is detected in ready-to-eat foods.

Further links:

Factsheet BAV: www.bav-institut.de

At BAV Institute, we regularly conduct tests for Escherichia coli and STEC/VTEC/EHEC. We provide fast and reliable results and are happy to advise you on all matters related to product safety. If you have any questions, our customer advisors are happy to assist you.

Source:

BAV Institute: www.bav-institut.de

BfR: www.bfr.bund.de