Joint FAO/WHO expert meeting on microbiological risk assessment on the use of omics-based technologies in microbiological risk assessment

Overview

A Joint FAO/WHO Expert Meeting on Microbiological Risk Assessment (JEMRA) on the use of omics-based technologies in microbiological risk assessment (MRA) was convened in Rome, Italy, from 2–6 March 2026.

The meeting brought together international experts to review recent scientific developments, available information and practical experience related to the application of omics-based technologies in microbiological food safety and MRA. The Expert Committee examined the current and potential use of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and related approaches in supporting hazard identification, hazard characterization, exposure assessment, and risk characterization. The Expert Committee reviewed two Codex Alimentarius documents about MRA and management and provided suggestions on areas where advances in omics-based technologies could be incorporated to update them.

This document summarizes the conclusions of the meeting. A full report will be published by FAO and WHO.