Foodborne Pathogens and Epidemiology

The Research Group for Foodborne Pathogens and Epidemiology analyses and interprets data on antimicrobial- resistance and -consumption as well as foodborne pathogens. The group also conducts risk assessments and develops epidemiological models, monitoring/intervention strategies, and decision-making tools.

The research group operates at the intersection of advisory services and research, aiming to prevent foodborne disease and strengthen public health through a One Health approach that recognises the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. The group is digitizing surveillance of foodborne diseases and antimicrobial resistance by automating data collection, image analysis, and reporting. It serves as editor of the Annual Report on Zoonoses in Denmark and the DANMAP report on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and use (AMU). In addition, the group participates in the Central Outbreak Group (DCUG), which coordinates food- and waterborne disease outbreaks in humans in Denmark.
 

Approaches and methods

  • Digital surveillance tools: automated data collection, image analysis, and reporting for real-time surveillance of AMR, AMU, and foodborne pathogens; including source attribution, AI-based meat inspection, and whole-genome sequencing (WGS).
  • Quantitative epidemiology: modelling of test performance (latent class models), burden of disease (BoD), QMRA, regression, multilevel modelling, and machine learning; analysis and interpretation of data on zoonoses, infections, antibiotic use, and resistance.
  • Risk assessment and decision support: evidence-based models for risk assessment, surveillance, and selection of interventions to enable data-driven decisions.
  • One Health and sustainability: prevention of foodborne disease through One Health and interdisciplinary approaches; improved microbial control and utilisation of side streams in production.
  • National programmes and advisory work: support for action programmes for salmonella and campylobacter in cattle, pigs, broilers, and the environment; advice to the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration on risks in both existing and new sustainable systems.
  • Reporting and submissions: responsibility for the annual zoonoses report, contributions to DANMAP (AMR/AMU), and annual reporting to EFSA.

Collaborations and impact

The research group provides scientific advice on food safety and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to regulatory authorities, so that the research is aligned with current needs in public health and industry, and works, for example, with the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration and Statens Serum Institute on surveillance of zoonoses and antimicrobial resistance. Access to national surveillance data and strong collaboration across DTU and external partners allow methods and insights to be tested, validated, and translated into practice.

Contact

Marianne Sandberg

Marianne Sandberg Senior Researcher, Head of Research Group Mobile: +45 40314954

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