Hungarian 
41st meeting of CCMAS held virtually
The 41st meeting of FAO/WHO Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS) was held virtually from 2021 May 11 to 25 because of the pandemic situation.
Increasing number of fish parasites
The number of Anisakis parasites most commonly found in fish has increased significantly in recent decades. This growing trend may pose food safety risks.
Echinococcus multilocularis on food
The parasitic tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis can enter the human body through contact with an infected animal or through ingestion of food contaminated with their eggs.
Possible link between harmful algal blooms and β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) neurotoxin
Algal blooms are on the rise worldwide, but no one has yet conducted comprehensive research to prove that they are a global phenomenon. β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a neurotoxin with neurodegenerative effects, and recent studies suggest that it may play a role in the development of Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/Parkinson's disease (ALS/PDC). In 2003 it was described that cyanobacteria in water can also produce BMAA.
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS)
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS) are widely used group of synthetic compounds, including the food industry. A new risk assessment has shown that the intake of PFAS exceeds safe levels in certain groups of the European population (toddlers, children), which is a health concern.
The 41st meeting of FAO/WHO Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS) will be held virtually
The FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Committee of Analytical and Sampling Methods (CCMAS) will hold its 41st meeting from 11-25 May 2021. Hungary has hosted the meeting since 1972.
Hepatitis E virus in pork products
In recent years, an increasing number of zoonotic cases of HEV3 and HEV4 have been reported in developed countries (HEV3 mainly affects European countries, while HEV4 mainly affects Asia). The main sources of zoonotic cases are raw or inadequately heat-treated meat products or contact with infected animals.
Influenza D virus in pigs and cattle
EFSA's risk assessment shows that the virus is enzootic in the European cattle population, but there are regional differences in prevalence. The significance of the virus is unclear as its clinical impact is unknown. Conclusive evidence for human infection is not yet available.
Genetically engineered microbes with unique DNA sequences for food tracking
A new way of food tracking has been developed by scientists: genetically engineered microbes are injected with unique DNA sequence combinations, which are then sprayed onto food.
DFI successfully applied for the EU-FORA fellowship programme
Our Institute has successfully applied to become a hosting site in the 2021-2022 EU-FORA fellowship programme.