FAO will host a Technical Meeting: Gut microbiome in food safety risk assessment

The gut microbiome is a dynamic microbial network composed of trillions of microorganisms living in a symbiotic relationship with the host. It plays an important role metabolizing compounds produced by the host, producing essential metabolites such as vitamins, amino acids and short-chain fatty acids and offering protection by stimulating the immune system and contributing to its maturation.

The composition and dynamics of the gut microbiome are more highly dependent on stressors and environmental factors than on host genetics. Therefore, a better understanding of how dietary chemicals can impact the gut microbiome and human health would allow to identify relevant microbiome endpoints that might be used in chemical risk assessment.

In order to determine the feasibility and readiness of microbiome data for its use into risk assessment, from 12 to 14 December, FAO will host a Technical Meeting: Gut microbiome in food safety risk assessment. This event will bring together a diverse group of experts, including food safety risk assessors and microbiome specialists.

Related information:

FAO releases three reviews about chemical exposure and the gut microbiome

Webinar delves into the impact of dietary chemicals on gut microbiome and health

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