The Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research Unit focuses on improving safety, quality and exportability of high value agricultural products, such as almonds, pistachios, walnuts and raisins.
The Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research Unit focuses on improving safety, quality and exportability of high value agricultural products, such as almonds, pistachios, walnuts and raisins.
FTDP scientists developed a highly sensitive test for all known strains of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli bacteria by using novel antibodies. They are patented by ARS and may also lead to treatments for foodborne illness.
Scientists in FTDP and the Produce Safety and Microbiology research units developed a rapid, easy to use test for botulinum toxin, as part of their mission to enhance food safety and biosecurity.
FTDP scientists have developed a simple and inexpensive camera system for detecting biologically active Shiga toxin, a product of pathogenic Escherichia coli serotype O157:H7.
FTDP chemists are collaborating with almond industry researchers to create a potent attractant for navel orangeworm, the primary insect pest of almonds. Larval feeding can promote fungal infection in kernels, potentially leading to contamination with carcinogenic toxins.
Flight tunnel behavioral tests led to development of an effective attractant (pear ester) for codling moth, a major pest of apples, pears and walnuts.
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