PROJECT

GENOMILKS

Development and combined application of genomics, transcriptomics and predictive mathematical models as the basis for an effective system for Bacillus cereus control and management of Greek Milk safety and quality.

SCOPE

Combination of scientific disciplines (genomics, transcriptomics, omics, quantitative microbiology and mathematical prediction models) to develop an innovative system for the prediction and identification of Bacillus Cereus in milk that could potentially form the basis for the development of similar systems for other foods while at the same time contributing significantly to the reduction of the cost of quality control procedures.

OBJECTIVES

Study of the presence/concentration of Bacillus Cereus in raw and pasteurized milk and isolation of its strains
Phenotypic and molecular characterisation of strains of the bacterium
Identification of molecular markers related to the cold-tolerant nature, pathogenicity and spoilage potential of Bacillus Cereus
Development of rapid molecular methods for the characterisation of strains with respect to the above molecular markers

Development and evaluation of mathematical models for predicting the behaviour of Bacillus Cereus in milk
Mapping of the temperature conditions of the Greek cold chain (distribution - refrigerated trucks, maintenance at points of sale, maintenance in household refrigerators)
Combination of the above tools and data for the development of an effective quality and safety management system for Greek milk based on the quantification of the risk of Bacillus Cereus