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<OL> <LI> Identify one or more high hydrostatic pressure process schedules that result in the inactivation of noroviruses. <LI> Validate murine norovirus-1 (MNV-1) as a surrogate for human noroviruses, specifically Norwalk virus 8FIIb. <LI> Develop comprehensive education and outreach activities on the applications of high hydrostatic pressure to human pathogen reduction in foods
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: The CDC estimates that 40 percent of the 22 million annual cases of Norwalk Virus result from foodborne transmission. This project combines research, education, and outreach activities to effectively address impediments to norovirus control.
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APPROACH: The surrogate virus study will determine the HPP parameters necessary to inactivate MNV-1 by employing recently proposed plaque assay and mouse model techniques. Human norovirus study will determine the HPP parameters necessary to inactivate Norwalk virus in naturally contaminated foods using oysters as a model. We will use the data obtained in the studies to compare the respective behavior of MNV-1 and Norwalk virus within our experimental protocol. This comparative analysis can then be used to guide further human norovirus studies using MNV-1 as a surrogate virus. A comprehensive outreach/extension program will be developed to disseminate information on the use of HPP treatment to safely eradicate or inactivate foodborne pathogens. Information will be available in a range of formats to best reach target audiences. An education program including print, electronic, and audiovisual media will be implemented to make consumers, food handlers, and regulators aware of the effects and benefits of HPP treatment, using research results as an example.