Climate variability and the emerging risks of foodborne pathogens: consequences for food safety and population health

Climate change is increasingly recognized as key driver shaping the global epidemiology of foodborne infections, influencing pathogen dynamics, toxin production, and food system safety. This review aimed to (1) examine the impact of climate change on the occurrence, growth, and geographic distribution of foodborne pathogens; (2) assess its influence on toxin production and chemical contamination in food systems; (3) evaluate disruptions across the food value chain, including production, processing, storage, and distribution; and (4) explore population vulnerability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and implications for surveillance and control strategies. A narrative review approach was used to synthesize published literature on climate-sensitive foodborne hazards, including bacterial, viral, parasitic, and toxin-producing microorganisms, as well as chemical contaminants, in relation to temperature rise, precipitation changes, and extreme weather events. Rising temperatures enhance the growth and survival of major foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, while also expanding the geographic distribution of marine-associated Vibrio species. Changes in temperature and humidity increase fungal growth and mycotoxin contamination, including aflatoxins, in major food commodities. Extreme weather events such as flooding contribute to the mobilization of chemical hazards, including pesticides and heavy metals, in food and water systems. Climate change also influences pathogen virulence and toxin production, increasing overall hazard potential. In addition, climate variability disrupts the food value chain. Water scarcity reduces agricultural productivity and irrigation capacity, while increased temperatures and weak infrastructure compromise cold chain systems during processing, storage, and distribution, particularly in low-resource settings. Climate change is a multifaceted driver of food safety risks through interconnected environmental, biological, and socio-economic pathways. Integrating climate data into foodborne disease surveillance, strengthening monitoring systems, and developing climate-resilient food safety strategies are essential to reduce emerging risks and protect public health.