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Staphylococci remain a challenge for food safety and public health, driven by toxin-mediated disease, antimicrobial resistance, and interconnected food systems. This review critically examined Staphylococcus aureus and S. argenteus as a foodborne hazard, integrating evidence on staphylococcal food poisoning (SFP), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and recent advances in detection and surveillance. It critically appraises trends in outbreak investigations - particularly the shift from enterotoxin detection to genomic screening - and evaluates preventive strategies. We highlight limitations of genome-based approaches in predicting toxin presence and caution against widespread nasal decolonisation of asymptomatic food handlers with mupirocin, given high recolonisation rates and resistance risks. The review further discusses livestock-associated MRSA as a One Health challenge spanning production, processing, and public health. Finally, we examine advances in predictive microbiology and AI-enabled tools that offer new opportunities for integrated surveillance, risk assessment, and targeted control of staphylococcal hazards in food systems. • Integrates S. aureus and S. argenteus hazards within a One Health framework • Critically reviews the trend towards WGS-based outbreak investigations • Maps LA-MRSA evolution, transmission and AMR threats along food chains • Shows how AI and predictive models advance staphylococcal risk control • Questions the usefulness of nasal decolonisation and provides alternatives
Fetsch et al. (Fri,) studied this question.