Microbiological risk assessment and preventive actions in bakery and beverage industries in Estonia, Slovenia and Turkey

Abstract

Risks from microbiological hazards are of immediate and serious concern to human health. Microbiological Risk Analysis (MRA) is a process consisting of three components: risk assessment (RA), risk management (RM), and risk communication (RC), which have the overall objective to ensure public health protection. The MRA process should include quantitative information to the greatest extent possible in the estimation of risk. A MRA should be conducted using a structured approach. Since MRA is a developing science, implementation of the guidelines may require a period of time and may also require specialized training in the countries that consider it necessary. This may be particularly the case for developing countries. This document deals with risk assessment, which is a key element in assuring that sound science is used to establish standards, guidelines and other recommendations for bakery and beverage safety to enhance consumer protection and facilitate international trade. This document will be of primary interest to governmental and research organizations, companies, and other interested parties who need to prepare a MRA will find it valuable.