Critical- and High-Priority Pathogens in the Food Chain, Volume II

Critical- and high-priority pathogens in the food chain represent a persistent and evolving threat to global public health. These microorganisms are responsible for a substantial burden of foodborne diseases, ranging from self-limiting gastrointestinal infections to severe systemic illnesses, with significant clinical, economic, and societal consequences. In recent years, the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the dissemination of high-risk clones, and the increasing role of mobile genetic elements have further complicated the epidemiology and control of these pathogens.Building on the success of Volume I, this Research Topic aims to advance our understanding of the prevalence, distribution, and public health impact of critical foodborne pathogens within a One Health framework. Particular emphasis will be placed on high-priority microorganisms, including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter, Norovirus, Clostridium botulinum, and Staphylococcus aureus, with a focus on their transmission across the human–animal–environment interface.This collection seeks contributions that explore contamination sources, transmission dynamics, and the role of food production systems in shaping pathogen ecology. Special attention will be given to genomic epidemiology, including the use of whole-genome sequencing to track pathogen evolution, the spread of antimicrobial resistance determinants, and the role of plasmids and other mobile genetic elements in horizontal gene transfer. In addition, the Topic will address emerging challenges such as the persistence of pathogens in environmental reservoirs, global trade and food distribution networks, and the impact of agricultural practices on pathogen dissemination.Contributions are also encouraged to evaluate current food safety interventions, regulatory frameworks, and technological innovations aimed at improving detection, surveillance, and control strategies along the food chain. By integrating multidisciplinary approaches, this Research Topic aims to provide actionable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and public health authorities to mitigate risks and strengthen global food safety systems.The scope of this Research Topic includes, but is not limited to, the following themes:• Epidemiology and prevalence of critical pathogens in different regions and food products.• Identification of contamination sources and transmission routes of pathogens along the food production and supply chain within a One Health framework.• Evaluation of factors influencing pathogen contamination, such as agricultural practices, food processing techniques, and storage conditions.• Assessment of the impact of critical pathogens on public health, including the burden of foodborne illnesses, economic costs, and societal implications.• Analysis of current food safety regulations, standards, and enforcement mechanisms at local, national, and international levels.• Review of technological innovations and analytical methods for detecting, monitoring, and controlling critical pathogens in food products.• Genomic epidemiology and molecular characterization of critical pathogens to track transmission, virulence evolution, and outbreak dynamics.• Investigation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) determinants in foodborne pathogens contributing to resistance dissemination. Topic editors: Daniel F. M. Monte, Fábio Sellera Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80805/critical--and-high-priority-pathogens-in-the-food-chain-volume-ii