Research summary
Ensuring food safety in global supply chains is critical. But current tracing systems struggle to prevent outbreaks and recalls, leading to public health risks and economic losses. As Canada Research Chair in Food Safety, Dr. Xiaonan Lu is exploring smart food safety, developing innovative technologies to improve how we trace food supplies and detect contamination.
He and his research team are working on portable detection devices, smart sensors and data-assisted, whole-genome sequencing to improve real-time monitoring of food safety risks. They are also integrating new digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things and cloud computing, to create more efficient and transparent food-tracking systems. By advancing next-generation food safety solutions, their research will strengthen consumer confidence, reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, and bolster the resilience of global food supply chains.