Coxiella burnetii and milk pasteurization: an early application of the precautionary principle?

2006/02/22 by O. Cerf, Robin Condron · 3 citations
Immunology and Microbiology · Medicine · #Vector-borne infectious diseases #Leptospirosis research and findings #Mosquito-borne diseases and control

paper · pdf · doi:10.1017/s0950268806005978

openalex publication_date 2006/02/22 · openalex created_date 2016/06/24 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/03

Abstract

Stringency of milk pasteurization has been established on requirements for Coxiella burnetii as being the most heat-resistant organisms of public heath significance. This paper discusses the estimation of the efficiency of pasteurization time/temperature combinations as required in regulations for food safety. Epidemiological studies have been interpreted as C. burnetii being a significant pathogen causing clinical disease through ingestion of milk. The paper examines the evidence and challenges the designation of C. burnetii as a foodborne pathogen. Consequently it questions the need for pasteurization parameters to be established on its heat resistance characteristics.

Cited by

• Thermal pasteurization of ready-to-eat foods and vegetables: Critical factors for process design and effects on quality
• Pasteurization of milk: The heat inactivation kinetics of milk-borne dairy pathogens under commercial-type conditions of turbulent flow
• Pasteurization [wikipedia]