Further studies are needed to identify the foodborne routes of Toxoplasmosis infection and identify the risks, according to a new report by the UK’s Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF).
The ACMSF provides the Food Standards Agency (FSA) with independent advice on the microbiological safety of food.
The ACMSF was asked by the Agency to review the current data on toxoplasmosis in humans and animals in the UK. It was asked to consider the risks from acquiring infection from food and identify the work that may be needed to obtain data on foodborne sources of toxoplasmosis.
FSA chief scientist Andrew Wadge said the report explains key gaps in the knowledge about the parasite and suggests areas where more research is needed which will help in estimating how much infection is due to food and which foods might be the highest risk.
"The report also suggests we look again at our advice to vulnerable groups and ensure that it reflects current scientific knowledge," Wadge added.
Toxoplasmosis is caused by infection with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which is prevalent in humans, warm-blooded animals and birds. While infection in the majority of healthy people causes no symptoms, it can lead to serious health consequences in pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.
