The prevalence study will investigate the microbiological quality of RTE plant-based dairy and meat substitutes in the European Union. The study will provide data on the numbers of these products potentially contaminated with microbial hazards at retail level. In all fifteen Member States participating in the study, analytical testing will be carried out at the end of the products shelf-life in order to determine the worst-case scenario for contamination with L. monocytogenes, as well as other hazards including Salmonella and STEC, at the end of the foods shelf-life duration. The information generated will contribute relevant prevalence data to the evidence base and be useful for further microbial risk assessment of these products.
Schedule
2025–2026
Project group
The project is led by Food Safety Authority of Ireland, and the other partners are food safety authorities of fourteen EU Member States. The participating Member States are shown on the map. Finnish Food Authority is represented in the project by the Risk Assessment Unit and Microbiology Unit.
Experts participating in the project:
- Saija Hallanvuo
- Suvi Joutsen
- Petra Pasonen
- Tiina Peltopuro
- Kirsi-Maarit Siekkinen
- Maria Simola
- Johanna Suomi
Funding
EFSA Focal Point tailor-made activity
More information
johanna.suomi@ruokavirasto.fi