StatementoftheBfRontheHealthAssessmentofVibrios
May 30, 2022 - Foods
StatementoftheBfRontheHealthAssessmentofVibrios
Vibrios are environmental bacteria distributed worldwide, mainly found in marine waters and river mouths. Consequently, seafood, fish, and fish products are predominantly contaminated with bacteria, including vibrios. If these foods are consumed raw or insufficiently heated before consumption, the vibrios contained can cause diarrhea in humans.
In particular, shellfish and oysters, which feed by filtering seawater, can contain higher concentrations of vibrios. Most commercial products are typically either heated or treated by other methods (e.g., marinating, smoking, drying, salting) that significantly reduce the microbial load in the food. The consumption of live oysters can pose a health risk, especially for immunocompromised individuals or those with pre-existing conditions. This is especially true if these foods are contaminated with toxigenic Vibrio parahaemolyticus or Vibrio vulnificus.
Since 2020, there has been a mandatory reporting requirement to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) in Germany; diseases caused by vibrios before this date are therefore not statistically recorded. The risk of adverse health effects is currently considered low. From the perspective of the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), rising global seawater temperatures could lead to an increased spread of vibrios and, consequently, an increase in such foodborne infections.
The BfR advises ensuring sufficient heating when preparing seafood dishes. Vibrios are safely killed when heated to at least 70°C for two minutes inside the food. Additionally, following general hygiene rules during the storage and preparation of food ("Kitchen Hygiene") can significantly contribute to protection against foodborne infections.
In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct testing for vibrios / Vibrio spp. (Vibrio cholerae / Vibrio parahaemolyticus / Vibrio vulnificus). We provide fast and reliable results.
Our customer advisors are at your disposal for any questions.
Sources:
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment
Questions and Answers on Vibrios
- Robert Koch Institute (RKI)