University of Tasmania, Australia

Clostridium botulinum is a bacterium ('germ') that produces the world's most potent poison. 
It is a neurotoxin that causes paralysis and is considered to be one of the most credible agents for bioterrorism.  That poison is also used, however, for cosmetic treatments under the name "Botox" and also for relief from certain neurological diseases.
 
Occasionally Clostridium botulinum contaminates foods and, if it grows in the food, it can produce the poison and can kill people - or at least leave them paralysed for months, and months, and months.
 
Recently, the large dairy company, Fonterra, announced that some of its milk powder was contaminated with C. botulinum. Honey is sometimes contaminated with C. botulinum spores and can be a particular risk to babies.
 
So, what is the risk to consumers from milk powder and to consumers in general?

Presented by Associate Professor Tom Ross, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) Food Safety Centre.

This presentation is open to UTAS Staff and Students and to interested persons from Business, Industry, Government & the Community.