The Importance of Establishing a Whole-Genome Sequencing Network and Database for Food-Pathogen Tracing

Abstract

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established a system of state, federal, international, and commercial partners in the United States for open-source whole-genome sequencing. When it comes to identifying and tracking down the origins of infections that cause foodborne outbreaks, the GenomeTrakr network is the first of its type. GenomeTrakr is at the forefront of food poisoning outbreak research and compliance action, allowing for more precise and prompt recalls of tainted foods and better monitoring of preventative controls in food processing facilities. To aid in a timely public health response to bacterial outbreaks, an increased network's capacity for pathogen traceback rapid monitoring is essential.