Various methods are commonly used for controlling microbiological contamination in foods and
drinking water as well as during food processing. Preservatives
(e.g. salting, sodium-nitrate and sugar addition) are used for limiting
microbial growth and increasing product shelf life. Disinfectants
(e.g. active chlorine addition, ozonation) are used to tackle
microbiological contaminants in the food processing environment
and drinking water. Fungicides are used for control of mycotoxin
producing fungi, etc. Most if not all applications used for controlling
microbiological health risks create an alternative risk to public
health, often a chemical risk; warranting the evaluation and balancing
of both risks and benefits (reduced risk) for public health
management.