Maintenance and further development of process risk models

Summary

In a previous project a process risk model for E. coli O157 in beef trim production was developed. This model utilised existing data from MLA projects and the wider literature and placed them into a risk context which could be used as a research tool to better understand risks and identify areas requiring further investigation. The model formed a useful predictive tool that helped in answering questions about the likelihood of contamination of beef trim with E. coli O157 under various scenarios without having to undertake expensive microbiological studies. Maintenance of the process risk model has allowed the Australian beef industry to take an innovative and proactive role in relation to E. coli 0157. Subsequently, this has helped MLA and the industry to stay ahead of the game rather than just reacting/responding to food safety concerns.