For over 60 years, the ICMSF has been actively contributing to the development and communication of scientific concepts to help reduce the incidence of microbiological foodborne illness and food spoilage.

Lucia Anelich receives Honorary Life Membership of SAAFoST

24 February 2026

Prof Lucia Anelich, a member of the ICMSF, has been awarded Honorary Life Membership of SAAFoST.

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In Memoriam Frank Busta (24 January 2026)

9 February 2026

The ICMSF mourns the passing of Frank Busta who was ICMSF member (1985-2000), and Treasurer (1998-2000).

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Leadership change at the Latin American Subcommission

15 December 2025

Dr Bernadette Franco steps down as President of LAS-ICMSF, with Dr Francisco Garcés-Vega elected as her successor.

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Resources

Books
Microorganisms in Foods books provide practical guidance on microbiological food safety and quality.
Articles and Papers
Published papers and articles about ICMSF study results.
Videos
Videos on ICMSF history and microbiological sampling, testing and related topics.
Software
Microbiological sampling plans: a tool to explore ICMSF recommendations.

Upcoming events

2026 IAFP Annual Meeting

26 to 29 July 2026, New Orleans, Louisiana

Each year, the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) hosts an Annual Meeting, providing attendees with information on current and emerging food safety issues, the latest science, innovative solutions to new and recurring problems, and the opportunity to network.

Meeting website

IAFP Latino 2026

28 to 29 September 2026, Buenos Aires, Argentina

The symposium provides a collaborative forum where Latin American scientific associations, supported by the IAFP, convene to exchange research, discuss food safety and quality issues and strengthen cooperation across academia, industry and government.

Meeting website

The International Commission on Microbiological Specifications for Foods (ICMSF, the Commission) was formed in 1962 through the action of the International Committee on Food Microbiology and Hygiene, a committee of the International Union of Microbiological Societies (IUMS). Through the IUMS, the ICMSF is linked to the International Union of Biological Societies (IUBS) and to the World Health Organization (WHO) of the United Nations.