A new study calls for replacing strict zero-detection food safety rules with science-based risk management to reduce waste and improve food security.

A new study urges a shift from strict zero-detection food safety standards to risk-based approaches that balance public health with food security, sustainability, and nutrition. Researchers say ultra-sensitive tests often flag harmless pathogen levels, leading to unnecessary waste, higher costs, and supply disruptions. They advocate for science-driven policies focusing on real-world risks, preventive controls, and data tools like AI and genomics, emphasizing that absolute safety is unattainable and counterproductive.