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Pathogens, biological contaminants, fraud and sensor technologies - Innovation to address urgent challenges in food safety at the I SENTIATECH Congress
- The I SENTIATECH Congress will be held on 21-22 October 2025 and will be a key European meeting point in the fight against emerging risks and innovation in detection technologies with an impact on health and the environment. The monitoring of pathogens, biological pollutants, food fraud and sensing technologies, among other matters, is one of the three key topics of the congress.
The European chemicals and materials industries stand at a pivotal moment, transitioning towards sustainability and safety. The I SENTIATECH Congress, scheduled for October 21-22, 2025, in Valencia, Spain, emerges as a crucial platform to accelerate this transformation. Being one of the three key topics the innovation in food safety and sensing technologies in agrifood value chains, the congress aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among stakeholders committed to preventing risks in food products reaching the final consumer.
Why food safety is a growing concern?
Advancing to improve food safety and the use of advanced sensor technologies, capable of detecting biological pollutants, pathogens or alterations in food in real time, is a key research and innovation area. The increasing complexity of supply chains, the emergence of new biological and chemical hazards, and the need to ensure safe and quality food are driving innovation in tools for more effective and rapid monitoring.
In this context, Europe is promoting the development of new smart sensors, rapid detection systems and digital platforms to monitor critical parameters along the entire food chain. These technologies allow not only to anticipate potential public health risks, but also to improve traceability, reduce food waste and increase consumer confidence.
Key food safety topics of the I SENTIATECH Congress
The I SENTIATECH Congress will feature three main topics with the common principle of detection and monitoring risks and emerging substances. In food safety, the main topic will be “Innovation and opportunities of Sensing technologies in agrifood value chains“. This theme encompasses disruptive and innovative hot topics that are receiving significant support from the industry and European regulatory institutions:
T2.1. Antimicrobial Resistance Gene Detection Methods in the Agrifood Value Chains
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to global health, and its emergence within agrifood systems is particularly concerning. Detecting antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) throughout the food production chain is crucial for mitigating this risk.
Bioinformatics tools play a pivotal role in analyzing sequencing data, facilitating the identification and quantification of ARGs in various matrices, including soil, water, and food products . Implementing these detection methods across the agrifood value chain enhances surveillance and informs strategies to curb the spread of AMR.
T2.2. New Technologies for Pathogens Detection and Food Safety Analysis in Agrifood Value Chains
Ensuring food safety necessitates rapid, accurate, and cost-effective pathogen detection methods. Emerging technologies are revolutionizing this field by offering enhanced sensitivity and specificity.
Biosensors, particularly those based on nanotechnology, provide real-time detection of foodborne pathogens with high sensitivity . CRISPR-based diagnostics, utilizing systems like Cas12 and Cas13, enable precise identification of pathogens at the genetic level, offering rapid results suitable for on-site testing.
Additionally, advancements in portable analytical devices and lab-on-a-chip technologies facilitate point-of-care testing, reducing the time between sampling and results. These innovations are critical for timely interventions and maintaining the integrity of the food supply chain.
T2.3. New Technologies for Allergenic Substances and Harmful Chemicals Detection and Monitoring in Agrifood Value Chains
The detection of allergens and harmful chemicals in food products is vital for consumer safety. Traditional methods, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), have been widely used but may lack the sensitivity required for trace-level detection.
Recent developments in biosensing technologies, including aptasensors and immunosensors, offer enhanced sensitivity and specificity for detecting allergenic proteins . Mass spectrometry (MS), particularly when coupled with immunoaffinity chromatography (IAC-MS), provides robust detection of various food toxins, including mycotoxins, pesticides, and veterinary drug residues.
These advanced analytical techniques enable comprehensive monitoring of food contaminants, ensuring compliance with safety standards and protecting public health.
T2.4. Molecular Techniques for the Detection of Food Fraud
Food fraud undermines consumer trust and poses health risks. Molecular techniques have become indispensable tools in detecting adulteration and ensuring food authenticity.
DNA-based methods, such as PCR and DNA barcoding, allow for the identification of species-specific genetic material, detecting substitutions and mislabeling in food products . Next-generation sequencing (NGS) offers comprehensive analysis, capable of identifying multiple species within complex food matrices.
These molecular approaches provide reliable and reproducible results, essential for regulatory compliance and consumer protection.
T2.5. EU Policies, Regulatory Requirements, and Trends
The European Union (EU) maintains a comprehensive regulatory framework to ensure food safety, encompassing the entire food production chain. The General Food Law Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 establishes the principles of risk analysis and the responsibilities of food business operators.
The EU’s “farm to fork” strategy emphasizes sustainability and traceability, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of food production while ensuring safety. Regulatory bodies, such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), provide scientific advice to inform policy decisions.
Emerging trends include the integration of digital technologies for traceability, increased focus on sustainable practices, and the development of new regulations addressing novel foods and food contact materials.
T2.6. Other
Additionally, the development of biodegradable packaging materials and the assessment of their safety profiles are gaining attention. Research into the impact of climate change on food safety, particularly concerning the prevalence of pathogens and contaminants, is also critical.
These interdisciplinary approaches contribute to a holistic understanding of food safety challenges and the development of innovative solutions.
Why Attend the I SENTIATECH Congress?
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with experts, policymakers, and industry leaders dedicated to the agrifood industry.
- Knowledge Exchange: Gain insights into cutting-edge research, methodologies, and best practices in the treatment of pathogens, biological pullotants and other risks.
- Policy Influence: Participate in discussions shaping future regulations and standards for food safety and sensing technologies.
- Innovation Showcase: Discover pioneering projects and technologies driving the transition to safer and more sustainable food value chain.
Call for Speakers is now open
Researchers, innovators, and industry professionals are invited to submit abstracts on topics of food safety with an impact on health and the environment. The submission deadline is June 15, 2025. Selected contributions will have the opportunity to present their work at the congress, contributing to the collective advancement of innovation at the agrifood industry.
The I SENTIATECH Congress 2025 represents a significant step towards embedding future safety and sustainability.
For more information and to submit your abstract, visit the I SENTIATECH Congress website.
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