Prof. Andreja Rajkovic from Ghent University highlights the potential food safety risks of cyanotoxins and nanoplastics in irrigation water, sparking interest and discussions among food safety experts at the BSFM Conference.

The Twenty-eighth Conference on Food Microbiology, organized by the Belgian Society for Food Microbiology (BSFM), brought together experts, industry participants, and policymakers on October 10th and 11th, 2024, in Brussels. This event is a crucial meeting point for those interested in food safety, quality, and the latest trends in the food sector. Featuring around 350 attendees, including international guests, the conference addressed a diverse audience of food microbiologists, producers, researchers, and concerned consumers.

Imptox scientist, Prof. Andreja Rajkovic from Ghent University, delivered an insightful talk on October 10th at 15:45 titled, “Cyanobacteria and the Risk of Contamination of Vegetables/Fruits During Irrigation.” In his presentation, Prof. Rajkovic shared the results of recent research exploring the potential risks associated with the exposure to cyanobacterial toxins, such as Mycrocystin LR (MC-LR), and nanoplastics. His findings demonstrated that both contaminants, when present in irrigation water, can be taken up by plants, ultimately posing a potential risk to the food chain.

Prof. Rajkovic and his team investigated how plants like basil, lettuce or strawberries absorb certain contaminants, including cyanotoxins and nanoplastics. The study highlighted differences in how various plants took up these substances with some showing higher absorption rates in their roots or edible parts. They also explored whether these contaminants might enter the human food chain and what impact they could have. The research suggested that factors such as plant type and irrigation methods can influence the level of contamination. Further laboratory studies were conducted to assess potential toxic effects on human cells, revealing that high concentrations of contaminants may affect cellular activity

Prof. Rajkovic’s presentation was well received by the audience, sparking much interest and lively discussions. Attendees were particularly intrigued by the potential implications of cyanotoxins and nanoplastics for food safety. Several participants, including members from food safety agencies, approached Prof. Rajkovic afterward to discuss whether such contaminants might warrant consideration in routine food monitoring.

The participation of Prof. Rajkovic at the BSFM conference serves as a reminder of the unseen challenges we face in maintaining a safe food supply as climate change continues to impact our ecosystems. Warmer temperatures and nutrient runoff from heavy rainfall can promote the growth of cyanobacteria, increasing the risk of toxins entering our food. Even small amounts of cyanotoxins accumulated across different dietary sources can potentially exceed safety thresholds. For these reasons, careful attention and ongoing research are warranted to ensure our food safety.