CROSS-BORDER COLLABORATION BETWEEN ROMANIA AND REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA FOR FOOD-BORNE PATHOGENS DETECTION IN RETAIL MEAT

In an era where food safety and public health are paramount concerns, the present cross-border network emerges as a powerful solution to improve research expertise of researchers from Romania and Republic of Moldova in the field of infectious foodborne pathogens. Focusing on retail fresh meat and poultry, this collaborative initiative intends to enhance the capabilities for swiftly and accurately detecting infectious agents. In particular, the targeted pathogens— Norovirus, Escherichia coli, Yersinia, and Campylobacter—hold critical importance due to their potential to cause foodborne illnesses. This groundbreaking effort recognizes that the globalized nature of the food supply chain demands collaborative strategies that transcend geographical boundaries. By pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise, the cross-border network seeks to establish the opportunity for training the young generation of researchers who carry out their scientific activity in both research institutions.