Microbiology (TRACK 1- FOOD DEFENSE)

Project summary: The primary goal of MDHHS BOL food laboratory is to provide surge capacity testing for the analysis of food products in detection, identification, and response for emergencies involving biological contamination of food with BSL3 bacterial select agents. BOL also will participate in FDA exercises, surveillance, and special event activities. Objective 1: To foster partnership with FDA stakeholders thereby taking necessary actions to assure the safety and security of the food supply. Objective 2: To collaboratively prepare sustainable testing capabilities and ensure laboratory surge capacity for BSL-3 select agents in food; initiating timely, effective, and well- coordinated response actions. Objective 3: Collaborate with FDA partners in developing a communication plan, to address the vital information need during an event. Objective 4: Participate in FDA-requested exercises and/or surveillance activities and national special event exercises. Objective 5: Maintain preparedness to rapidly respond to suspected or confirmed intentional contamination involving human or animal food. Objective 6: Test a minimum of 50 samples for Yersinia pestis, Bacillus anthracis, or requested organism from FDA. Samples will be collected by laboratory following FDA Chapter 4 Sample Collection Manual. Objective 7: At least one key person will attend LFFM face to face meeting.