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                    U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
 Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research: Albany, CA
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The Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research Unit focuses on improving safety, quality and exportability of high value agricultural products, such as pistachios, almonds, walnuts, raisins and cantaloupes.
 Larval feeding by navel orangeworm, the primary insect pest of almonds, can promote fungal infection in kernels and lead to contamination with carcinogenic toxins. FTDP scientists are examining natural food additives for insecticidal and antifungal use on tree nut pests. More
 FTDP scientists have found that hamamelitannin from witch hazel can promote growth of probiotic *Lactobacillus* bacteria, although it is known to inhibit growth of pathogenic *Staphyllococcus*. More
 FTDP scientists developed a highly sensitive test for all known strains of Shiga toxin-producing *E. coli* bacteria by using novel antibodies. They are patented by ARS and may also lead to treatments for foodborne illness. More *Winner of the 2021 Pacific West Area Technology Transfer-Group Award*
 FTDP scientists have developed a sensitive, reliable and portable test for amanitin, the deadliest class of mushroom poisons. This immunoassay could be used in the field for detecting amanitin presence in wild mushrooms. More
 Scientists in FTDP and the Produce Safety and Microbiology research units developed a rapid, easy to use test for botulinum toxin, as part of their mission to enhance food safety and biosecurity. More
 Flight tunnel behavioral tests led to development of an effective attractant (pear ester) for codling moth, a major pest of apples, pears and walnuts. More


Mission


Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research Unit (FTDP) Christina Tam, Acting Research Leader FTDP Personnel **FTDP Research**Current Research Projects


Pacific West Area   jeffery.mcgarvey@usda.gov


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