2007 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) The objective of this cooperative research project is to develop pasteurization standards to kill H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus in dried egg whites. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) The study will develop a process to standardize moisture content in dried egg white, generate H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus infected egg whites, and use a precise thermocycler method to develop Dt and Z values for heat inactivation of these viruses at commercial pasterization temperatures and processes. 3.Progress Report This report serves to document research conducted under a trust fund cooperative agreement between ARS and the American Egg Board. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the parent CRIS (6612-32000-048-00D), Application of Biological and Molecular Techniques to the Diagnosis and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Emerging Poultry Pathogens. High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) can be deposited inside the last few eggs laid by infected hens. This project was initiated to address an import ban of USA produced dried egg white products by some importing countries when the USA experiences outbreaks of LP or HPAI virus. The project will examine the ability of high temperature-short time pasteurization to kill HPAI virus. The project was initiated by final signatures on 7/27/2007 and a post doctoral associate has been assigned to the project. The investigators have worked with the scientific advisors of the granting agency and have developed an innovative experimental protocol. MONITORING: Progress is monitored by regular email communications, phone calls, and meetings.