Book excerpt: The aim of this book is to assemble detailed information relating to foodborne pathogens in order to make it readily accessible to those who wish to employ the HACCP system for the control of microbial hazards. The book is concerned solely with foodborne pathogens and does not discuss spoilage organisms. Each chapter provides a general survey of a foodborne pathogen, with appropriate referencing to authoritative review material. Reviews the history and the occurrence of the organism in nature as well as its taxonomy. Discusses the symptoms (but not the treatment) of the relevant foodborne disease syndrome(s), as well as the mechanism of pathogenicity. Consideration is given to the available method for the enumeration and identification of the organism, as well as possible alternative methods. Also reviews the epidemiology of the foodborne disease and its importance. Each chapter concerns itself with the specific parameters that influence the growth, survival or death of the microorganism. Includes information on temperature, water activity, pH, irradiation, preservatives, gases, disinfectants and, where possible, on interactions between these parameters. Written for food technologists, product developers, food microbiologists and regulators.