Role of gut microbiota in food safety

The human gastrointestinal tract is colonized by a complex microbial community known as the gut microbiota which has coevolved with humans over millennia. Emerging evidence connects gut microbiota to food safety as they play an important detoxification role, yet enhance retention and toxicity of certain food components in the host. Food components previously recognized as inert may impact host health through interactions with gut microbiota. At the same time, defined microbial consortia incorporated into food production processes may improve food safety. Here we review what is currently known about the relationship between gut microbiota and food safety, as well as address existing limitations and challenges.