January 2026 Brings Key Advances in Food Microbiology and Nanotechnologies Standards

The beginning of 2026 marks a significant moment for the natural and applied sciences with the publication of five critical international standards. These documents span the latest methods in food microbiology—including modern nucleic acid amplification for pathogen detection and predictive modeling of microbial growth—as well as new requirements for testing nano-object release from mask media. Professionals across food safety, laboratories, public health, and materials development should pay close attention to these standards, as they introduce advanced requirements, updated definitions, and best practices that will drive quality and compliance throughout the sector.

Overview

The field of natural and applied sciences underpins global progress in health, safety, and innovation. Standards play a pivotal role by setting consensus-based requirements for accuracy, reproducibility, and safety—essential in food production, laboratory diagnostics, and the fast-evolving nanotechnology sector. This article reviews the most recent January 2026 standards for food microbiology and nanotechnology, detailing how they help laboratories, food manufacturers, equipment suppliers, and researchers ensure compliance and advance industry practices.

You’ll learn about:

• Methodologies for detecting microorganisms and their genetic markers
• Techniques to model and predict microbial growth
• Enumeration of beneficial microorganisms in yoghurt
• Assessment of nano-object release from mask media
• Practical and regulatory implications for industry professionals

Detailed Standards Coverage

EN ISO 24914:2026 – General Requirements for LAMP Detection in Food Chains

Microbiology of the food chain - Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for the detection of microorganisms and associated genetic markers - General requirements and definitions (ISO 24914:2026)

EN ISO 24914:2026 establishes the general requirements for developing and applying loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) methods in detecting microorganisms and related genetic markers, such as antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes, within the food chain. This standard offers a comprehensive guide for laboratories and food industry professionals seeking accurate, rapid, and reliable molecular methods for pathogen detection. It spans all LAMP platforms and applications, covering raw materials, environmental samples, and products destined for both human and animal consumption.

Key sections in the standard address:

• Sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction
• Stepwise laboratory procedure for isothermal amplification
• Use of appropriate internal and external controls
• Signal detection and interpretation
• Data analysis, reporting, and performance criteria

Notably, EN ISO 24914:2026 does not address method validation or quantification—directing users to the ISO 16140 and ISO 17468 series for these needs. Instead, it emphasizes general laboratory guidance, essential terminology, and best practices crucial for implementing LAMP-based testing in both regulated and research environments.

Key highlights:

• Broad applicability across food, feed, and environmental laboratories
• Guidance on all sample types relevant to the food supply chain
• Promotes reliable, rapid detection of important microbial targets

Access the full standard:View EN ISO 24914:2026 on iTeh Standards

FprEN ISO 23691 – Microbiology of the Food Chain: Cardinal Values Determination

Microbiology of the food chain - Determination and use of cardinal values (ISO/FDIS 23691:2025)

FprEN ISO 23691 is a breakthrough standard that sets out how to determine cardinal values for bacterial and yeast strains—a critical component for predictive microbiology. Cardinal values (reflecting the minimum, optimum, and maximum conditions for parameters such as temperature, pH, water activity, and inhibitory compounds) are essential for accurately simulating and predicting microbial growth in various food products and processing environments.

This document prescribes:

• Methods for experimentally determining growth rates using binary dilution OD-based and direct plating techniques
• Validation protocols for cardinal parameter estimation
• Use of secondary mathematical models to extract cardinal values
• How to apply these values in predictive models that can guide risk assessment, process optimization, and product safety

While geared toward laboratories engaged in microbial risk assessment and predictive modeling, the standard is equally vital for food companies implementing Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) or supporting regulatory compliance efforts. It also addresses the calculation and integration of food correction factors to bridge differences between laboratory and real-world scenarios.

Key highlights:

• Comprehensive workflow for precise microbial growth modeling
• Supports compliance with food hygiene and safety regulations
• Enhances food product shelf-life and safety validation

Access the full standard:View FprEN ISO 23691 on iTeh Standards

ISO 7889:2026 – Enumeration of Yoghurt Microorganisms by Colony-Count

Yoghurt — Enumeration of characteristic microorganisms — Colony-count technique

ISO 7889:2026 provides the reference method for enumerating Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus—the two characteristic microorganisms essential to authentic yoghurt—using colony-count techniques. This standard is central to quality control in the dairy industry, ensuring product composition, shelf-stability, and compliance with national and international definitions of yoghurt.

Noteworthy updates in the 2026 edition include advances in culture media and protocols:

• A revised M17 culture medium formulation, now containing sucrose for enhanced enumeration
• Updated requirements for the main buffer (β-glycerophosphate) to optimize colony morphology and selectivity
• Mandatory microaerobic incubation for improved selectivity
• Validation requirements aligned with ISO 17468
• Flexibility between pour and spread plate techniques depending on expected microbial concentrations

Yoghurt manufacturers, contract laboratories, and regulatory authorities will benefit from the reproducibility and reliability this standard ensures, making it easier to demonstrate compliance with food regulations and consumer expectations worldwide.

Key highlights:

• Validated protocols for enumeration of yoghurt starter cultures
• Expanded applicability for both high and moderate microbial loads
• Aligns with evolving international definitions and compositional standards for yoghurt

Access the full standard:View ISO 7889:2026 on iTeh Standards

ISO 24914:2026 – LAMP for Microorganism Detection: General Requirements (ISO Edition)

Microbiology of the food chain — Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for the detection of microorganisms and associated genetic markers — General requirements and definitions

Issued as the international standard by ISO, this edition mirrors EN ISO 24914:2026, providing harmonized guidance for deploying LAMP in food chain microbiology worldwide. It specifies the technical foundations for:

• Sample preparation, nucleic acid extraction, and isothermal amplification
• Laboratory setup and critical control measures
• Proper interpretation of LAMP signals and results reporting
• Utilization of performance metrics for method evaluation

Laboratories, quality assurance managers, and regulatory agencies should consult ISO 24914:2026 for the most up-to-date best practices in molecular detection and genetic marker identification, especially as the food chain faces mounting challenges from emerging pathogens and antimicrobial resistance.

Key highlights:

• Fully harmonized with the latest European and international food microbiology requirements
• Essential for validation and standardization of LAMP protocols
• Increases food safety assurance globally

Access the full standard:View ISO 24914:2026 on iTeh Standards

ISO/TS 11353:2026 – Detecting Nano-Object Release from Mask Media

Nanotechnologies — A test method for detection of nano-object(s) release from mask media

ISO/TS 11353:2026 introduces a pioneering test method for detecting the release of nano-objects from the filter media of surgical masks, respirators, and barrier face coverings. With the rising use of nanotechnology to enhance mask performance, this specification provides vital safety guidance for manufacturers and testing laboratories. It outlines procedures for:

• Qualitative detection and characterization of nano-objects released during mask use (by air flow, not skin or liquid contact)
• Sampling protocols and methods for gathering particles from different mask types
• Techniques for chemical and size/shape analysis (e.g., transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, condensation particle counting)
• Reporting requirements and data interpretation to assess potential human exposure

This technical specification is crucial for public health organizations, regulatory authorities, and mask manufacturers seeking to ensure product safety and comply with evolving market and regulatory expectations.

Key highlights:

• First standardized test for nano-object release specifically from mask media
• Applicability across mask types and nano-object integration technologies
• Supports consumer safety, market transparency, and regulatory alignment

Access the full standard:View ISO/TS 11353:2026 on iTeh Standards

Industry Impact & Compliance

Adoption of these newly published standards will significantly impact food producers, public health laboratories, mask manufacturers, and suppliers of laboratory services and equipment. Organizations will need to:

• Review and update laboratory protocols to reflect the new technical requirements and acceptable reference methods
• Ensure quality control and risk management systems are updated to accommodate advances in detection and modeling
• Train staff on new methodologies and reporting obligations

Benefits of compliance include:

• Stronger assurance of food and product safety
• Reduced risk of regulatory non-conformity, product recalls, and foodborne illness outbreaks
• Enhanced reputation for quality in the global market

Failure to align with these new standards—or to appropriately validate and report laboratory methods—could expose organizations to audit failures, loss of certification, or legal liability in the event of food safety incidents or product safety claims.

Recommended compliance steps:

1. Conduct a gap assessment against current methods
2. Plan and implement staff training on new protocols
3. Update documentation and quality management system references
4. Schedule timely validation or verification as required by each standard

Technical Insights

Across the five newly published standards, several technical trends and best practices emerge:

• Molecular detection methods (LAMP): Rely on precise sample preparation, robust control strategies (positive extraction controls and amplification controls), and validated reagents. Clean laboratory design and strict procedural adherence are paramount.
• Predictive modeling: Robust data collection, consistent use of mathematical models, and application of food correction factors bridge laboratory results with real-world scenarios.
• Enumeration techniques: Detailed stepwise procedures ensure accurate and reproducible colony counts. Selection of appropriate media and incubation conditions is critical for both traditional and innovative products.
• Nano-object detection: Multi-modal measurement (physical and chemical characterization) ensures comprehensive risk evaluation. Specialized equipment (electron microscopes, particle counters, spectroscopy tools) and clear reporting formats are required.

Testing and certification considerations:

• ISO validation requirements (such as those referenced in ISO 16140, ISO 17468, and related standards) remain central to regulatory acceptance of laboratory results.
• Documentation and traceability are emphasized, including quality assurance records, method performance data, and reporting protocols.
• Interlaboratory studies and method harmonization improve consistency and comparability of results, especially in multinational supply chains.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The January 2026 standards update for natural and applied sciences brings substantial advances across food microbiology and nanotechnology safety. Organizations are urged to:

• Review and integrate these standards into laboratory and quality management systems
• Stay informed about additional harmonizations and revisions due in the months ahead
• Leverage authoritative platforms like iTeh Standards for updates, official documents, and ongoing guidance

By adopting the latest international standards, professionals will reinforce food safety, laboratory integrity, and product quality, while driving innovation and maintaining regulatory compliance in a rapidly changing landscape.

Explore the full documentation and ensure your practices meet the latest global requirements by visiting iTeh Standards. Stay ahead, stay compliant, and lead with confidence.