Foodborne Pathogens: Genetic Profiling, Resistance, and Risk Assessment

Dear Colleagues,

Despite substantial progress in food microbiology, the genetic complexity and ecological adaptability of foodborne pathogens continue to complicate surveillance and control efforts. High-resolution approaches, such as whole-genome sequencing, core- and pan-genome analyses, SNP-based phylogenomics, and metagenomic profiling, now enable precise characterization of strain lineages, mobile genetic elements, and population structure across the farm-to-fork continuum. These tools have revealed the extensive role of horizontal gene transfer, plasmid-mediated resistance, stress-response regulons, and persistence-associated genotypes in shaping pathogen fitness within food processing environments.

This Special Issue, “Foodborne Pathogens: Genetic Profiling, Resistance, and Risk Assessment,” invites studies that dissect molecular determinants of virulence, biofilm formation, and antimicrobial resistance; apply genomic surveillance frameworks; or evaluate transmission routes using quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) models. Research integrating genomic data with predictive microbiology, environmental monitoring, or advanced detection technologies is particularly encouraged. By consolidating evidence on pathogen evolution, resistance dissemination, and exposure assessment, this Issue aims to support more accurate risk characterization and the development of science-based mitigation strategies across the food supply chain.

Dr. Branko Velebit
Dr. Urska Jamnikar-Ciglenecki
Guest Editors

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