Chapter 44 – Climatic Changes1

All living organisms from animal, plants to microorganisms thrive in a specific range of temperature and humidity. Climatic changes, whether anthropogenic or natural as a result of short- or long-term weather fluctuations, impact the ecology of these organisms. These changes will in turn alter the prevalence and geographic distribution of pathogens and toxigenic molds, and will impact on the level of the chemicals (veterinary drugs, pesticides, fungicides) we use to keep them under control. This short text highlights some examples of problems that the food industry may encounter in relation to food safety and climatic changes.