This webinar will share key findings from the Safe Leafy Veg R&D program, focusing on the sources and transmission pathways of microbial contamination in leafy vegetables, with a focus on STEC. Strategies for mitigating microbial risks will be explored, alongside a risk-based approach to microbiological testing. Over the past two years, more than 125 leafy vegetable growers and over 35 processors across the country have actively contributed to the program by sharing their food safety practices and enabling both random and systematic microbiological sampling. As a result, the leafy veg sector is progressing toward science-based, data-driven risk management to combat emerging food safety threats.
About the Speaker:
Dr. Sukhvinder Pal (SP) Singh | Senior Research Scientist – Fresh Produce Safety and Traceability| NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
Dr SP Singh is a Senior Research Scientist and Institute Director at the NSW Department of Primary Industries. With a research focus on food safety and traceability, his team enables growers in the adoption of best practice to mitigate risks. He currently leads the ‘Safe Leafy Veg’ and ‘Safe Melons’ projects which aim to strengthen food safety systems across supply chains. His balanced knowledge of science, industry and regulatory system positions him as a highly recognised expert. His collaborative network extends nationally and internationally with a variety of organisations including peak industry bodies, universities, government agencies, regulators and industry. Dr Singh actively contributes to the profession through his elected roles as the Vice-Chair of Postharvest and QA Division at the International Society for Horticultural Science and as a Director of the Australian Society of Horticultural Science. He also holds the Adjunct Associate Professor position at the University of Newcastle.
