Epidemiology of foodborne pathogens in Europe with special emphasis on the Republic of Croatia

This review evaluates the occurrence and epidemiological trends of major foodborne zoonotic pathogens in the European Union, with particular emphasis on the Republic of Croatia, over the period 2020-2024. Using the One Health framework, data were synthesised from annual zoonosis reports of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), complemented by targeted national and regional studies. Following a temporary, pandemic-related decline in 2020, largely attributable to COVID-19 related disruptions in surveillance and behavioral changes, notification rates for most foodborne pathogens rebounded and stabilised at pre-pandemic or higher levels. Campylobacteriosis remained the most frequently reported zoonosis, while salmonellosis persisted at consistently high levels, with notable shifts in serovar distribution, including the emergence of Salmonella Infantis. Listeriosis, although less frequent, demonstrated the highest hospitalisation and case fatality rates, with a continued upward trend. Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infections increased substantially, partly due to improved molecular diagnostics and enhanced surveillance sensitivity. Unlike existing consolidated EFSA/ECDC reports, this review highlights the importance of regional data for identifying localised hotspots and more precisely understanding transmission dynamics. This more detailed perspective emphasises the need for continuous, integrated surveillance across the human, veterinary, and environmental sectors to effectively address evolving, region-specific risks related to pathogen adaptation, antimicrobial resistance, and climate-related pressures within the food supply chain.