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Biofilm Methodologies and Food Sector Regulation Workshop Report

Geertje Van Keulen Orcid Logo, Natalie De Mello Orcid Logo, ANTHONY HORLOCK, NBIC National Biofilms Innovation Centre, Network Biofilm Alliance, FSRN UK Food Safety Research Network

Swansea University Authors: Geertje Van Keulen Orcid Logo, Natalie De Mello Orcid Logo, ANTHONY HORLOCK

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DOI (Published version): https://doi.org/10.5258/biofilms/016

Abstract

This report summarises the outcomes of a cross-sector workshop on Biofilm Methodologies and FoodSector Regulation, held in Nottingham on 6 March 2025, organised by the National BiofilmsInnovation Centre (NBIC), the Biofilm Alliance and the Food Safety Research Network (FSRN). Theworkshop brought tog...

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Published: Southampton, UK 2025
Online Access: https://biofilms.ac.uk/download/28695
URI: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa70651
Abstract: This report summarises the outcomes of a cross-sector workshop on Biofilm Methodologies and FoodSector Regulation, held in Nottingham on 6 March 2025, organised by the National BiofilmsInnovation Centre (NBIC), the Biofilm Alliance and the Food Safety Research Network (FSRN). Theworkshop brought together stakeholders from industry, academia, regulatory bodies, and testingorganisations to discuss the challenges that microbial biofilms pose across the food supply chain. Theparticipants were asked to discuss the following points:• What biofilm methodologies is the food industry currently using to meet regulatory requirements?• What are the challenges and needs in addressing biofilms in the food sector?• What challenges arise when navigating the UK’s food regulatory landscape?• What solutions could be proposed to address the above difficulties?• What additional methodologies or guidelines would the industry like to see developed to furthersupport regulatory compliance?Key discussions revealed that biofilms remain a widespread but under-recognised risk in foodproduction environments. Many organisations lack awareness, education, technical expertise, and theresources needed for effective biofilm detection, prevention, and intervention. Current detection tools,such as swabbing and reactive sprays, are inconsistent, non-quantitative, and often fail to identifyearly-stage or embedded biofilms.Participants agreed that prevention is more effective and cost-efficient than remediation. Practicalstrategies include tailored, multistage cleaning protocols; condition monitoring; hygienic equipmentdesign; and the use of advanced technologies such as enzymes, UV light, and biocontrol agents.However, adoption remains uneven due to gaps in regulatory guidance, limited small and mediumenterprises capacity, and insufficient validation of emerging tools.The absence of a biofilm-specific regulatory framework was identified as a major barrier. Existingstandards (e.g. HACCP) do not reflect the complexity of biofilm risks. Retailers often impose their ownrequirements, leading to inconsistency across the sector. There is a clear need for standardisedmethodologies, industry-specific definitions, and collaborative frameworks to guide action.Proposed next steps for the scientific and industry communities include developing validateddetection tools, enhancing workforce training, creating shared knowledge platforms, and aligningregulatory and industry practices. A coordinated, proactive approach would be essential to strengthenfood safety, support innovation, and build long-term resilience against biofilm-related contaminationrisks.
Keywords: Biofilm; Methodologies; Food; Regulatory Guidance; industry; academia; regulatory bodies; testing houses;
College: Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences
Funders: InnovateUK

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