Taxonomic identification
Unequivocal taxonomic identification at the species level is a key requirement and basis of microbial safety assessment. It is also essential for granting the QPS (qualified presumption of safety) status for a microorganism. For this purpose, whole genome sequence (WGS) analysis is a superior tool and is required from all bacteria and yeast strains intentionally added in the food chain in the EU. It is also highly recommended for fungi.
Biosafe follows all sectoral guidance documents, such as those for feed additives or food enzymes, but also general guidance documents including bioinformatics instructions, such as the latest EFSA statement on the requirements for whole genome sequence analysis of microorganisms intentionally used in the food chain. Our pipelines ensure that we use up-to-date databases and our experts are familiar with the most common species used in the food chain. For less well-known species we can tailor-make our analysis to find the closest taxa. Depending on the case, we can use gene-based identification, genome similarity scores or more complex phylogenetic studies.
We also follow and apply changes in taxonomy as soon as they become available to make sure that identification is according to most recent taxonomic information available.
Sometimes the taxonomic analysis leads to the description of a new species. Although the publication of a new species may not be mandatory for regulatory purposes, it is sometimes desired by our customers. Biosafe can support taxonomic publication with our laboratory studies, bioinformatic analysis of the genome data and scientific writing. See an example here.
Your path to approved studies — what happens after you contact us?
WHAT YOU DO:
1.
Contact us
Take the first step and reach out to Biosafe.
WHAT WE DO:
2.
Personalised Kick-off Meeting
Biosafe clarifies your objectives and expectations.
WHAT YOU DO:
3.
Accept the quote & provide background info
Customize our services to your unique needs.
WHAT WE DO:
4.
Clear shipment instructions
We’ve got the playbook for shipping biological samples safely.
WHAT YOU DO:
5.
Send your samples
Send your samples to Biosafe. You can also send us Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) data.
WHAT WE DO:
6.
Comprehensive DNA sequencing and analysis service
Biosafe processes, analyses the WGS data and drafts a comprehensive report.
WHAT YOU DO:
7.
Review the WGS and bioinformatics report
We will perfect the final EFSA-compliant report with your feedback.
WHAT WE DO:
8.
Continuous support with authorities
Biosafe’s got your back, addressing post-submission queries or if any issues emerge.
Contact us
Jenny Makkonen
Project Manager, PhD
+35840 5474 110
jenny.makkonen@biosafe.fi
Daniel Blande
Bioinformatician, PhD
+35840 506 8086
daniel.blande@biosafe.fi
Lars Granlund
Project Manager
+358 40 5061 244
lars.granlund@biosafe.fi
Minna Voutilainen
Bioinformatician
+358 40 5050 913
minna.voutilainen@biosafe.fi
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You can also make an appointment for a consultation.