The high-throughput or next-generation sequencing (HTS/NGS) has revolutionized many scientific fields from environmental to human health sciences. The adoption and increased use of the HTS technology and its many applications by the regulatory and health agencies in the US and around the world has begun an inevitable transitional period in our food safety regimes from the old means to the new ones. With unprecedented resolution, the HTS methods and technology enable the researchers and safety personnel in the food industry to examine the foods in their life cycle from production to consumption, and the environments where they circulate with an unparalleled power to ensure the best safety measures.
The IFSH High-Throughput Sequencing (HTS) Initiative (IHTSI) provides research opportunities, laboratory and analytical services for the food industry in collaboration with FDA and IFSH scientists to apply HTS strategies to improve and modernize food safety and quality. Additionally, the HTS Initiative actively seeks collaboration with external researchers interested in applying HTS as a tool in their current or future projects. Initial targets for HTS analysis include, but not limited to, major foodborne pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella spp., Listeria spp., E. coli, and microorganisms that cause food spoilage.