Workshop report International Conference on Chemical and Microbiological Risk Assessment for Food Safety 18-19 December 2025 Hanoi, Vietnam © 2025 International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) ILRI thanks all donors and organizations which globally support its work through their contributions to the CGIAR Trust Fund. This publication is copyrighted by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). It is licensed for use under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence. To view this licence, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0. Unless otherwise noted, you are free to share (copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format), adapt (remix, transform, and build upon the material) for any purpose, even commercially, under the following conditions: ATTRIBUTION. The work must be attributed, but not in any way that suggests endorsement by ILRI or the author(s). NOTICE For any reuse or distribution, the license terms of this work must be made clear to others. Any of the above conditions can be waived if permission is obtained from the copyright holder. Nothing in this license impairs or restricts the author’s moral rights. Fair dealing and other rights are in no way affected by the above. The parts used must not misrepresent the meaning of the publication. ILRI would appreciate being sent a copy of any materials in which text, photos etc. have been used. Editing–ILRI Editorial and Publishing Services Citation Chi Nguyen, Sinh Dang-Xuan, Fred Unger, Le Thi Hong Hao, Tran Cao Son, Ta Thi Yen and Hung Nguyen Viet. 2025. International Conference on Chemical and Microbiological Risk Assessment for Food Safety: Workshop report. Nairobi, Kenya: ILRI. https://cgiar-my.sharepoint.com/personal/c_nguyen_cgiar_org/Documents/Desktop/REPORT/Risk%20assessment/ILRI%20thanks%20all%20donors%20and%20organizations%20which%20globally%20support%20its%20work%20through%20their%20contributions%20to%20the%20CGIAR%20Trust%20Fund. https://cgiar-my.sharepoint.com/personal/c_nguyen_cgiar_org/Documents/Desktop/REPORT/Risk%20assessment/ILRI%20thanks%20all%20donors%20and%20organizations%20which%20globally%20support%20its%20work%20through%20their%20contributions%20to%20the%20CGIAR%20Trust%20Fund. 3 Contents Workshop report .................................................................................................................................................................. 1 Contents................................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Acknowledgements .............................................................................................................................................................. 6 Abbreviations and acronyms ................................................................................................................................................ 7 Executive summary ............................................................................................................................................................... 9 Workshop highlights ........................................................................................................................................................... 10 Opening session .............................................................................................................................................................. 10 Session 1: Risk assessment and risk management ......................................................................................................... 11 Presentation 1: Digital framework for food safety risk assessment data: International insights and recommendations for Vietnam................................................................................................................................... 12 Presentation 2: Risk-informed food safety inspection and control: Strategic directions for modernizing national food control system .................................................................................................................................................... 12 Presentation 3: A risk-based approach to strengthen food safety assessment and interventions in traditional food value chains in Vietnam and the region ..................................................................................................................... 12 Presentation 4: Application of mathematical methods in health risk assessment ..................................................... 13 Presentation 5: Korean Total Diet Study (TDS) for dietary exposure assessment and food safety in Korea .............. 13 Presentation 6: Risk-based official controls – Case study from Irelands food control system ................................... 13 Panel discussion .......................................................................................................................................................... 13 Session 2: Toxicological studies in risk assessment ........................................................................................................ 14 Presentation 7: Study of the body's reactions to exposure to risk factors ................................................................. 14 Presentation 8: Modern approaches in food safety risk assessment: Next generation risk assessment for agricultural operators ................................................................................................................................................. 14 Presentation 9: Design toxicology studies to assess health risks ............................................................................... 14 Presentation 10: Epidemiological studies in health risk assessment .......................................................................... 15 Session 3: Probabilistic risk assessment ......................................................................................................................... 15 Presentation 11: Probabilistic modelling in exposure and risk assessment – theory, practice and future ................ 15 Presentation 12: QMRA of salmonellosis in the Cambodia meat value chain: From traditional markets to consumers ................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Presentation 13: Exposure assessment and risk characterization of Salmonella contamination in chicken in Hanoi and surrounded areas ................................................................................................................................................. 16 Presentation 14: Risk assessment of food processing contaminants in Vietnam....................................................... 16 Session 4: Young scientist (part 1) .................................................................................................................................. 16 4 Presentation 15: Improving PCR techniques for detection of Listeria sp. in raw milk................................................ 16 Presentation 16: Machine learning based on UV - Vis full spectra for the simultaneous determination of curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin in Curcuma longa L. .......................................................................... 17 Presentation 17: Identification of some probiotic bacterial strains from the genus Lactobacillus using molecular biology methods ......................................................................................................................................................... 17 Presentation 18: Evaluation of Nitrite (NO₂⁻) content in street food (processed meat) and its exposure to human 18 Presentation 19: Application of artificial intelligence (AI) in durian safety and quality control: A "farm to table" whole-chain management model ............................................................................................................................... 18 Session 4: Young scientist (part 2) .................................................................................................................................. 19 Presentation 20: Development of a modular light-up aptamer platform for selective fluorescence detection of Chloramphenicol ......................................................................................................................................................... 19 Presentation 21: Development of molecularly imprinted polymers for the selective adsorption and preconcentration of Auramine O dye ......................................................................................................................... 19 Presentation 22: Study on the determination of ethylene oxide residues in selected dried fruit and vegetable products collected in Hanoi using GC-MS/MS ............................................................................................................ 19 Presentation 23: Determination of multiple antibiotic residues in eggs using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry LC-MS/MS ................................................................................................................................... 20 Presentation 24: Screening for synthetic pharmaceutical substances in health supplements for diabetes, hypertension, and weight gain using HPLC-MS/MS ................................................................................................... 20 Session 5: Poster presentation ....................................................................................................................................... 21 Annex 1: Agenda ................................................................................................................................................................. 24 Annex 2: Participating organizations .................................................................................................................................. 27 Annex 3: Poster abstracts ................................................................................................................................................... 30 Poster 1: Optimizing PCR techniques for accurate detection of Salmonella spp. in raw meat sample ...................... 30 Poster 2: Nanotechnology in food and food packaging: Implications for risk assessment and research gaps in Vietnam....................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Poster 3: Response surface methodology for optimizing ultrasound-assisted extraction of total saponin and phenolic contents from Codonopsis javanica roots .................................................................................................... 30 Poster 4: Antimicrobial Resistance in Ready-to-Eat Street Foods: A preliminary study in Hanoi urban .................... 30 Poster 5: Nitrite risk in Vietnamese fermented vegetables and lab starter culture – based safety control: an overview ..................................................................................................................................................................... 31 Poster 6: Traditional fermented foods as reservoirs of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms: A case study in Hanoi urban ........................................................................................................................................................................... 31 Poster 7: Production of the kumquat syrup to use as a kumquat drink ..................................................................... 31 Poster 8: Evaluation of trace metals in milk and milk products and human health risk assessment ......................... 32 Poster 9: Milking hygiene practices and Escherichia coli contamination in milk from dairy household farms in Gialam, Hanoi ............................................................................................................................................................. 32 5 Poster 10: Antibiotic resistance of Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolated from oysters in Quang Ninh, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An, Vietnam ....................................................................................................................................................... 32 Poster 11: Geographical origin classification of Vietnamese turmeric (Curcuma Longa L.) based on UV-Vis and FTIR spectra combined with machine learning .................................................................................................................. 33 Poster 12: Coumarin in cinnamon: Factors affecting content and food safety risks .................................................. 33 Poster 13: Establishment of a characteristic diterpenoid reference standard for Croton tonkinensis Gagnep. ........ 33 Poster 14: Research results on detection of Salmonella spp contamination and popularity of important antibiotic resistance genes during chicken meat supply chain ................................................................................................... 34 Poster 15: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of Silymarin in medicines and functional foods using HPLC-DAD .. 34 Poster 16: Evaluation of anthocyanin content in common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) from three regions in Vietnam and optimization of anthocyanin extraction method ................................................................................................. 34 Poster 17: Evaluation of selected characteristics of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens as a basis for probiotic production in livestock farming ................................................................................................................... 35 Poster 18: Optimization of a modified QuEChERS method of experimental design for vitamin B2, B3, B6 and B9 in powder formula milk by HPLC/DAD ............................................................................................................................ 35 Poster 19: Application of explainable Artificial Intelligence in personalized nutrition ............................................... 35 Poster 20: Improving the classification accuracy of orange varieties and origins based on chemical composition using machine learning algorithms and SMOTE data balancing ................................................................................. 36 Poster 21. A multi-source machine learning approach for edible oil classification from fluorescence spectroscopy and chemical parameters ........................................................................................................................................... 36 Poster 22. Knowledge and practice regarding food safety of food handlers and related factors at the collective kitchens of kindergartens in Cam Le district, Da Nang city in 2023 ............................................................................ 36 Poster 23. Determinants of food safety K–A–P and evaluation of an on-site intervention model among restaurant food handlers in Ha Long city, Vietnam ...................................................................................................................... 37 Poster 24. Development of a TLC-scanning method for quantification shikimic acid in Star anises .......................... 37 Poster 25. Research on mineral salt, heavy metal and trace element content in rice ............................................... 37 Poster 26. Simultaneous determination of prohibited adulterants in dietary supplements for weight loss by capillary electrophoresis with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection ........................................... 37 Poster 27. Simultaneous determination of malachite green and leucomalachite green by capillary electrophoresis with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (CE-C4D) .................................................................... 38 Poster 28. Evaluation of Nitrite (NO₂⁻) content in street food (processed meat) and its exposure to human health 38 Poster 29. Developing a method for quantitative patulin in apple and apple products using LC-MS/MS ................. 38 6 Acknowledgements The International Conference on Chemical and Microbiological Risk Assessment for Food Safety was co-hosted by the National Institute of Food Control (NIFC) under the Ministry of Health, Vietnam, and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). The conference was made possible by the support of the Agroecology and Safe Food System Transitions Project (ASSET), the ASEAN-CGIAR Innovate for Food and Nutrition Security Regional Program, and the CGIAR Science Program on Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods (SAAF). 7 Abbreviations and acronyms AI Artificial intelligence AMR Antimicrobial Resistance ANN Artificial Neural Network ASF African swine fever BDS Business development services BfR German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment CAP Chloramphenicol CE Capillary electrophoresis 2-CE 2-Chloroethanol DNA Deoxyribonucleic acid EDS Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy EDTA Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid EDI Estimated Daily Intake EtO Ethylene oxide EU European Union FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration FSRA Food safety risk assessment FT-IR Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy GC-MS/MS Gas Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry HCA Heterocyclic amine HPLC High performance liquid chromatography HI Hazard Index ILRI International Livestock Research Institute iRISK Integrated Risk Information System KLEPT Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology LC-MS/MS Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry LOD Limit of Detection MARD Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (Vietnam) MIP Molecularly imprinted polymer MOE Margin of Exposure 8 Monte Carlo Monte Carlo simulation NDMA N-Nitrosodimethylamine NDEA N-Nitrosodiethylamine NPIP N-Nitrosopiperidine NIFC National Institute for Food Control OHI One Health Initiative PAH Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon PCR Polymerase chain reaction PLSR Partial least squares regression QMRA Quantitative microbial risk assessment R² Coefficient of determination RF Random Forest RMSE Root Mean Square Error RSD Relative Standard Deviation SEM Scanning Electron Microscopy spp. Species (plural) TDS Total Diet Study THQ Target Hazard Quotient UHPLC Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography UV-Vis Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy VAST Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology VFA Vietnam Food Administration VNU Vietnam National University VNUA Vietnam National University of Agriculture VSFA Vietnam Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment xAI Explainable artificial intelligence 9 Executive summary Food safety remains a critical public health priority, requiring proactive, science-based approaches to prevent and control chemical and microbiological hazards throughout the food supply chain. Risk assessment plays a central role in providing scientific evidence to inform risk-based food safety management, regulatory decision-making, and digital transformation of food control systems. Within this context, the “International Conference on Chemical and Microbiological Risk Assessment for Food Safety” was successfully held on 18–19 December 2025 in Hanoi, Vietnam. Hosted by the National Institute for Food Control (NIFC) under the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), the conference brought together more than 150 reputable scientists, food safety managers, policymakers, international experts, and young researchers. Going beyond a conventional academic forum, the conference served as a bridge between science and management, enabling participants to assess the current situation, propose solutions, and outline directions for evidence-based food safety management in Vietnam. The conference provided a strategic platform to introduce and promote food safety risk assessment as a core component of national food safety management. A key highlight was the introduction of the Vietnam Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment (VFSA), established by the Ministry of Health in 2024 and hosted at NIFC, and discussions on strengthening national and international collaboration in risk assessment. Senior representatives from the Vietnam Food Safety Administration (VFA) emphasized the critical role of risk assessment in supporting regulatory decision- making, addressing management challenges, and advancing the digitalization of food safety management systems. Sessions on risk assessment and risk management highlighted current practices in Vietnam and internationally, emphasizing evidence-based management and digital data frameworks. The toxicological studies in risk assessment session presented modern methodologies and study designs used to determine safe limits for food safety. the probabilistic risk assessment session focused on exposure assessment models and risk characterization, with practical case studies from Vietnam and the region. International experiences from Germany, Ireland, Korea, and other countries enriched discussions on risk-based official controls, total diet study (TDS), and next-generation risk assessment approaches. The conference also addressed practical implementation challenges, human resource development, and regulatory alignment for risk assessment in Vietnam. Delegates highlighted the need to promote and institutionalize Total Diet Studies, strengthen capacity building, and expand technical cooperation with international partners to support both risk assessment and risk management. The conference also provided an important platform for young scientists through dedicated scientific and poster sessions, reflecting strong engagement from the next generation of researchers and reinforcing the sustainability of risk assessment capacity development. 10 Workshop highlights Opening session Le Thi Hong Hao, director of the National Institute of Food Control (NIFC), welcomed participants and emphasized that the conference aims to strengthen awareness and control of chemical and microbiological hazards across the entire food chain. The event features expert presentations and discussions that share international best practices alongside Vietnam’s current experiences and challenges. The conference also serves as an important preparatory step toward the Food Control Conference (FCC) 2026, scheduled to take place in Hanoi in October 2026, with the first official announcement to be released in January 2026. In his opening address, Chu Quoc Thinh, acting director general, Vietnam Food Safety Administration (VFA), emphasized the central role of risk assessment in strengthening food safety management in Vietnam and outlined key regulatory and institutional reforms underway. He highlighted ongoing efforts to amend the Food Safety Law, with a strategic shift from a narrow focus on food safety toward an integrated approach to quality and safety management. To bridge legal gaps during this transition, new decrees are being developed to replace Decree 15/2010, alongside revised regulations on product declaration and control. The system will connect procedures across ministries, support a two-level local government structure, and include national food safety indicators to ensure consistent management from central to local levels. At the same time, technical regulations and national standards (QCDNs) are being reviewed and updated to strengthen the scientific foundation of food safety management. He also stressed the importance of institutionalizing a risk-based approach within the Food Safety Law, including clearer provisions on inspection, post-inspection activities, traceability, sampling, testing, and the handling of non-compliant products. He highlighted the establishment of a food safety risk assessment center at NIFC and confirmed NIFC’s leading role in conducting risk assessment and market surveillance. 11 Nguyen Viet Hung, regional director, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) highlighted the substantial economic and public health burden of foodborne diseases, particularly in developing countries, which account for approximately 95% of the global impact. He noted that foodborne illnesses not only affect health outcomes but also impose significant economic losses due to reduced productivity, citing examples of substantial financial losses at both national and global levels. Despite this burden, investments in food safety management and disease prevention remain limited in many low- and middle-income countries. Hung recalled that Vietnam’s first Food Safety Law, enacted in 2011, marked an important milestone by introducing a risk-based approach to food safety management. However, at the time, national capacity for conducting food safety risk assessment was still limited. To address this gap, a task force was established, laying the foundation for institutional strengthening and ultimately leading to the establishment of a food safety risk assessment center at the National Institute for Food Control now. He emphasized that the creation of this center represents a significant step forward in advancing evidence-based food safety management in Vietnam. He also underscored the importance of harmonizing terminology and concepts related to risk assessment across sectors and institutions, noting that inconsistent use of terms has posed challenges to effective coordination and implementation. Hung stressed the critical role of international collaboration in strengthening food safety systems. He highlighted ILRI’s commitment to continued cooperation with Vietnamese agencies and international partners through initiatives such as the One Health approach, as well as the application of digital tools and artificial intelligence (AI) to address data gaps, enhance assessment capacity, and support facility-level food safety improvements. Session 1: Risk assessment and risk management Co-chair: Nguyen Cong Khan and Fred Unger 12 Presentation 1: Digital framework for food safety risk assessment data: International insights and recommendations for Vietnam By Tran Cao Son¹* , Fred Lemke², Frank Scrimgeour² ¹ National Institute for Food Control (NIFC), Hanoi, Vietnam ² Waikato Management School, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand Food safety risk assessment (FSRA) in Vietnam is challenged by fragmented, non-standardized, and poorly integrated data systems, despite the large volume of laboratory and monitoring data generated annually. These data are rarely digitized or shared across ministries and provinces, limiting their use for evidence-based decision-making. The establishment of the Vietnam Centre for Food Safety Risk Assessment (VFSA) under the National Institute for Food Control (NIFC) in July 2024 marked an important step toward a coordinated, science-based approach. This study aims to develop a feasible digital transformation model for FSRA data management in Vietnam. Using a qualitative comparative design and the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework, the research analyzes key constraints and enabling factors, informed by international experience. Key outcomes include a standardized metadata framework, a context-specific digital platform design, and a proposed pilot implementation plan at NIFC to integrate health-sector food safety data. Presentation 2: Risk-informed food safety inspection and control: Strategic directions for modernizing national food control system By Tran Thi Dinh¹², Brian Bedard¹ ¹ The Safe Food for Growth (SAFEGRO) Project, Hanoi, Vietnam ² Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam Strengthening national food control systems through risk-informed approaches is increasingly important to protect public health, improve regulatory efficiency, and support international trade. While international guidance, including Codex Alimentarius, promotes risk-based food safety management, many low- and middle-income countries, including Vietnam, still rely heavily on end-product testing and compliance-based inspections. These approaches are resource- intensive and often limited in preventing emerging risks. Risk-informed systems offer a more effective alternative by focusing inspections and controls on areas of greatest public health concern, using risk assessment, business classification, and data-driven decision-making. This presentation reviews key components of risk-informed food safety systems and shares international case studies to highlight practical implementation pathways and challenges. Presentation 3: A risk-based approach to strengthen food safety assessment and interventions in traditional food value chains in Vietnam and the region By Sinh Dang-Xuan¹*, Hung Nguyen-Viet¹², Trang Le Thi-Huyen¹, Rotarna Chea³, Vannaphone Phouthana⁴, Phuc Pham- Duc⁵, Delia Grace²⁶, Fred Unger¹ ¹ International Livestock Research Institute, Hanoi, Vietnam ² International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya ³ National Animal Health and Production Research Institute, Phnom Penh, Cambodia ⁴ Faculty of Agriculture, National University of Laos, Vientiane, Laos PDR ⁵ Institute of Environmental Health and Sustainable Development, Hanoi, Vietnam ⁶ Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Kent, UK Several Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, have integrated food safety risk analysis into national laws and regulations. However, risk-based approaches are still mainly applied to exported products, while domestic food commodities—largely produced through traditional value chains—remain under-addressed. These value chains involve many small-scale actors, limited cold-chain infrastructure, and variable hygiene practices, leading to higher food safety risks. This presentation outlines a risk-based approach to strengthen food safety assessment and targeted interventions in traditional food value chains in Vietnam and the region. Drawing on over a decade of capacity-building by ILRI, the 13 approach includes training and quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) studies, such as assessments of salmonellosis risks in traditional pork value chains in Vietnam and Cambodia. The findings highlight the importance of adapting risk assessment methods to local consumption and food-handling practices to improve the relevance and effectiveness of food safety interventions. Presentation 4: Application of mathematical methods in health risk assessment By Pavel Z. Shur* FBSI “Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies”, Perm, Russia Federation Mathematical methods play an essential role in health risk assessment related to food consumption, particularly in analyzing exposure–response relationships. Modeling techniques are used to establish key risk parameters, such as acceptable daily intake levels, which support the setting of hygienic standards. Carcinogenic risks are typically assessed using linear models based on experimental data, while non-carcinogenic risks are commonly evaluated using logistic regression to estimate the probability of adverse health effects. The Eurasian Economic Commission’s methodology expands these approaches by applying evolutionary models to assess lifetime exposure, sensitive populations, and combined risk factors. Depending on the hazard type, exposure may be expressed as dose or infection probability, with advanced tools such as Monte Carlo simulations and neural networks used to assess long-term and cumulative health risks. Presentation 5: Korean Total Diet Study (TDS) for dietary exposure assessment and food safety in Korea By Ock Jin Paek* New Hazardous Substances Division, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety (NIFDS), Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), Chunju, Republic of Korea The Korean Total Diet Study (TDS), developed over the past two decades, is a key scientific tool for assessing dietary exposure to chemical contaminants and supporting food safety risk assessment in Korea. Launched in 2000, it has expanded from heavy metals and pesticides to include persistent organic pollutants, process contaminants, mycotoxins, and emerging hazards such as microplastics. Representative foods are selected using national dietary data, prepared according to typical consumption patterns, and analyzed to estimate population exposure. The results support risk characterization using toxicological reference values and inform regulatory priorities. This presentation introduces the Korean TDS methodology and discusses how Korea’s experience can support countries, including Vietnam, in strengthening dietary exposure assessment and food safety policies. Presentation 6: Risk-based official controls – Case study from Irelands food control system By Michelle Riblet* Sustainable Food Systems Ireland, Agriculture House, Kildare Street, Dublin, Ireland, D02 WK12 Within food control systems, risk-based controls aim to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of official controls by prioritizing resources according to the likelihood and severity of risks. Under EU Regulation 2017/625, food safety authorities assess factors such as food type, operator activities, compliance history, reliability of in-house controls, and potential hazards to human health. In practice, risk profiling faces challenges including data limitations, dynamic risks, fraud, and inconsistent application. This article presents Ireland’s approach, where the Food Safety Authority of Ireland coordinates multiple competent authorities to deliver risk-based controls, supported by strong oversight, regular audits, and close collaboration to ensure consistency across the food chain. Panel discussion The panel highlighted diverse approaches to food safety risk assessment and management across countries and commodities. New Zealand’s experience underscored the value of mandatory producer responsibility, independent 14 monitoring by MPI, and long-term programs such as total dietary studies, supported by standardized metadata, integrated mapping, and sustained external funding. Panelists noted persistent challenges, including limited data sharing across ministries and the need for harmonized data systems. In response, a proposal was raised to build a technology-enabled regional network for consistent food safety data, drawing on decades of practical experience in food safety management. A second discussion focused on Salmonella risk in pork in Cambodia and Ethiopia, emphasizing quantitative risk assessment, dose–response modeling, exposure pathways, and extensive field and laboratory data. Findings suggested targeted interventions at slaughter and retail levels could significantly reduce risk, highlighting the importance of capacity building, risk communication, and context-specific management in low-income settings. Further exchanges explored emerging methods for setting toxicity thresholds, including extrapolating from animal studies and exploring tissue culture alternatives. Participants stressed the need to consider multiple target organs and align research with trade and export safety requirements, despite some technical disruptions during the session. Session 2: Toxicological studies in risk assessment Co-chair: Tran Cao Son and Pavel Shur Presentation 7: Study of the body's reactions to exposure to risk factors By Oleg V. Dolgikh* Head of the Department of Immunobiological Diagnostic Methods, FBSI “Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies”, Perm, Russia Federation High levels of environmental pollution, including long-term exposure to fuel-related substances and contamination of drinking water and food, are major risk factors for non-communicable diseases. Individual genetic susceptibility can increase vulnerability to environmental exposures, contributing to cancer, allergies, and autoimmune disorders. Modern cellular, genomic, and transcriptomic approaches help identify biological mechanisms and biomarkers that indicate exposure, sensitivity, and early health effects. This work presents methods and models used to assess chemical exposure and to identify molecular and immunological markers linked to substances such as heavy metals and organic pollutants. The use of effect and sensitivity biomarkers supports more accurate health risk assessment, early disease detection, and targeted prevention measures to reduce health risks from chemical exposure. Presentation 8: Modern approaches in food safety risk assessment: Next generation risk assessment for agricultural operators By Bloch D¹, Pesticides Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany Agricultural operators are exposed to plant protection products (PPPs) through contact with both concentrated formulations and spray solutions. Current risk assessments mainly focus on active substances, often overlooking the potential effects of co-formulants such as surfactants, solvents, and preservatives. To address this gap, a New Approach Methodology (NAM)-based testing strategy is proposed. The approach combines in silico screening, in vitro toxicity testing, cell painting, metabolomics, and physiologically based kinetic modeling to assess mixture effects and derive health-based guidance values. Operator exposure is then compared with these values through non-dietary risk assessment. Future development will include organ-on-a-chip models to better reflect real exposure conditions. Presentation 9: Design toxicology studies to assess health risks By Dmitry V. Suvorov* Health Risk Analysis Department, Federal Budget Scientific Institution “Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies”, Perm, Russia Federation 15 N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is a common food contaminant with known hepatotoxic and carcinogenic properties, yet parameters for assessing non-carcinogenic risk from chronic exposure remain limited. Under the 2024 “Sanitary Shield” scientific roadmap, researchers from the Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies and the National Institute for Food Control (Vietnam) conducted a six-month toxicological study in Wistar rats exposed to NDMA (0.02–40 µg/kg bw). Liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT) were assessed as effect biomarkers. GGT showed the highest sensitivity, enabling derivation of a BMDL of 0.0055 mg/kg bw and a reference dose (RfD/ADI) of 5.73×10⁻⁶ mg/kg bw for chronic NDMA exposure. Presentation 10: Epidemiological studies in health risk assessment By Sergey E. Zelenkin* Health Risk Analysis Department, Federal Budget Scientific Institution “Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies” Environmental epidemiology examines links between environmental exposures and health outcomes, supporting risk assessment by establishing dose–response relationships under real-world conditions. Within the 2025 “Sanitary Shield” scientific roadmap, a longitudinal epidemiological study was conducted at the Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies to assess non-carcinogenic health risks from dietary exposure to N- nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). The study involved 33 adults without liver disease, monitored monthly for blood NDMA levels and liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT). Meat consumption showed a strong association with NDMA levels (R² = 0.82, p < 0.05). A significant dose–response relationship between NDMA intake and GGT activity was established, providing parameters for quantitative non-carcinogenic risk assessment. Session 3: Probabilistic risk assessment Co-chair: Tran Thi Dinh and Nguyen Viet Hung Presentation 11: Probabilistic modelling in exposure and risk assessment – theory, practice and future By Greiner M* German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Department of Exposure and University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation in Hannover, Germany This presentation explores the theory, current use, and future needs of probabilistic modelling in exposure and risk assessment. Probabilistic models, often based on Bayesian methods, help quantify uncertainty and variability in chemical exposure by combining data with expert knowledge and correcting common biases such as censored data. The presentation reviews tiered risk assessment approaches, where lower tiers use conservative deterministic models and higher tiers apply probabilistic methods with improved data. Tools such as expert elicitation and two-dimensional Monte Carlo simulation are discussed. The talk also highlights future challenges, including complex exposure scenarios, climate change, and the need for AI-supported modelling and continued training in statistical and modelling skills. Presentation 12: QMRA of salmonellosis in the Cambodia meat value chain: From traditional markets to consumers By Rortana Chea¹*, Sinh Dang-Xuan², Tum Sothyra¹, Hung Nguyen-Viet², Johanna F. Lindahl², Chhay Ty³, Sok Kaom¹, Delia Grace²˒³, Fred Unger² ¹ National Animal Health and Production Research Institute, General Directorate of Animal Health and Production, Cambodia ² International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya ³ Livestock Development for Community Livelihood Organization, Phnom Penh, Cambodia ⁴ Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom 16 Foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus pose significant public health risks in Cambodia. Using quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA), this study estimated the risk of salmonellosis from consuming chicken and pork salad. Samples of chicken and pork (n=204 each) were collected from traditional markets nationwide, and household salad preparation practices were surveyed to assess cross-contamination. Salmonella prevalence was 42.6% in chicken and 45.1% in pork. Monte Carlo simulations showed an annual salmonellosis risk of 11.2% for chicken salad and 4.0% for pork salad, with cross-contamination identified as the main risk driver. The findings highlight the need for improved market monitoring and household food hygiene practices. Presentation 13: Exposure assessment and risk characterization of Salmonella contamination in chicken in Hanoi and surrounded areas By Nguyen Tuan Thanh¹, Vu Thi Thanh An¹, Tran Huy Hieu¹, Vu Khanh Van¹, Ninh Thi Hanh¹, Pham Van Quan¹, Tran Cao Son¹ ¹ National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam Salmonella is a major cause of foodborne illness and is frequently detected in chicken meat. While food poisoning cases are widely reported, quantitative risk assessments of Salmonella exposure from chicken consumption in Vietnam have been lacking. This study developed a quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) model to estimate health risks in Hanoi and nearby provinces. A total of 180 chicken carcasses were sampled from wet markets and supermarkets, and consumption data were collected from 400 consumers. Using the FDA-iRISK platform, the model estimated higher per- serving illness probabilities for chicken from wet markets than supermarkets, reflecting higher contamination levels. The QMRA provides a scientific basis for targeted Salmonella control strategies along the chicken value chain in Vietnam. Presentation 14: Risk assessment of food processing contaminants in Vietnam By Tran Cao Son¹˒², Nguyen Thi Hong Ngoc¹˒², Tran Huy Hieu¹, Pham Thi Thanh Ha² ¹ National Institute for Food Control, 65 Pham Than Duat Str., Hanoi, Vietnam ² Hanoi University of Pharmacy, 13-15 Le Thanh Tong Str., Hanoi, Vietnam Thermal processing methods such as frying, roasting, grilling, and smoking can generate harmful compounds including nitrosamines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), acrylamide, and heterocyclic amines (HCAs), which are associated with carcinogenic and chronic health effects. This study assessed dietary exposure and health risks from these compounds in commonly consumed meat products in Vietnam by analyzing 1,404 food samples and surveying 2,160 adults. Exposure levels varied widely across foods and processing methods. Margin of Exposure analysis identified several nitrosamines, notably NDMA, NDEA, and NPIP, with very low MOE values, indicating high concern. Lifetime cancer risk estimates exceeded accepted thresholds, highlighting the need for improved processing practices and strengthened food safety policies in Vietnam. Session 4: Young scientist (part 1) Co-chair: Nguyen Cong Khan and Le Thi Phuong Thao Presentation 15: Improving PCR techniques for detection of Listeria sp. in raw milk By Duong Le Dieu Hang¹, Tran Huu Phong¹˒², Pham Bao Yen³, Nguyen Hong Minh¹˒²* ¹ Faculty of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Phenikaa School of Engineering, Phenikaa University, Hanoi, Vietnam ² Bioresource Research Center, Phenikaa School of Engineering, Phenikaa University, Hanoi, Vietnam ³ Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology (KLEPT), VNU University of Science, Hanoi, Vietnam Given the increasing concern over the potential of Listeria spp. to cause serious foodborne illnesses, this study was conducted to develop a rapid and accurate method for detecting their presence using PCR. Such an approach could 17 contribute to improved food safety monitoring. To provide an objective basis for comparison, Listeria strains were isolated from commercially available food samples. The isolates were characterized and described based on morphological, biochemical, and physiological traits to assess their similarity to the Listeria genus. The isolate with the highest similarity was identified through sequencing, and its genomic DNA, together with that of Listeria monocytogenes, was used as a template for PCR amplification targeting the hly, iap, and prfA genes. PCR conditions were optimized to ensure both efficiency and specificity. Results showed that the isolated strain did not carry the virulence gene hly, unlike the L. monocytogenes reference strain, while functional iap and prfA genes were present. These findings highlight the potential for future research aimed at distinguishing between pathogenic and nonpathogenic Listeria strains in food products. Presentation 16: Machine learning based on UV - Vis full spectra for the simultaneous determination of curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin in Curcuma longa L. By Nguyen Ha Anh¹, Nguyen Thi Van Anh¹, Nguyen Duc Phong², Nguyen Duc Thanh³* ¹ Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine and Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam ² TRAPHACO Joint stock company, Hanoi, Vietnam ³ Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam This study has developed an rapid and simple method based on the UV-Vis full spectra coupled with machine learning for the simultaneous determination of curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin in turmeric rhizomes. The UV-Vis spectral data and HPLC quantification results of the individual components from 55 turmeric rhizome samples were utilized for model development and training. Analogous data matrices from an independent set of 24 samples were used for external validation of the developed models. Four machine learning models were investigated, comprising two linear multivariate regression algorithms: principal component regression – PCR and partial least squares regression – PLSR, two non-linear multivariate regression algorithms artificial neuron network - ANN and random forest - RF. The results demonstrated that the linear multivariate regression models exhibited superior analytical performance. Specifically, PCR yielded a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0,957 – 0,982 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 3,086 – 1,295, while PLSR achieved an R² of 0,956 – 0,979 and an RMSE of 3,116 – 1,139. This study confirms the feasibility of rapidly and simultaneously quantifying curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin in turmeric rhizomes using UV-Vis spectral data coupled with either PLSR or PCR models, offering a potentially efficient alternative to conventional methods. Presentation 17: Identification of some probiotic bacterial strains from the genus Lactobacillus using molecular biology methods By Dang Thi Thu Hien*, Pham Thi Minh Tam, Le Khanh Truc Diem, Tran Viet Hung, Nguyen Thanh Ha Institute of Drug Quality Control Ho Chi Minh The use of probiotic products is increasing, creating a need for reliable quality control methods, especially for multi- strain formulations where traditional identification lacks specificity. This study developed and evaluated a PCR-based molecular method to identify common Lactobacillus species in probiotic products, including L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, L. brevis, L. paracasei, L. bulgaricus, and L. fermentum. DNA extracted from reference strains and commercial products was amplified using species-specific primers and confirmed by electrophoresis and 16S rDNA sequencing. All target species were accurately identified with high specificity and repeatability. The method performed well on commercial products, demonstrating its suitability for routine quality control of multi-strain probiotics. 18 Presentation 18: Evaluation of Nitrite (NO₂⁻) content in street food (processed meat) and its exposure to human By Nguyen Thi Phuong Mai¹*, Dinh Thi Diu¹, Duong Thi Hanh², Pham Thi Khuyen¹ ¹ Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Viet Nam ² Institute of Science and Technology for Energy and Environment, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam Processed meats are popular among young people due to their convenience and taste, but they often contain nitrite (NO₂⁻), which can form carcinogenic nitrosamines at high levels. This study assessed nitrite content in commonly consumed street foods among young people in Hanoi. Mean NO₂⁻ concentrations ranged from 1.0 to 25.5 mg/kg, with the highest levels found in Chinese sausages, followed by sausages. Meatballs, grilled seafood cakes, tofu, and cartilage sausages contained much lower levels, generally below 3.1 mg/kg. All measured values were well below the regulatory limit of 200 mg/kg set by the Vietnamese Ministry of Health and the U.S. FDA. Estimated dietary intake was 0.055 mg/kg body weight/day, below the acceptable daily intake, indicating no significant health risk. Presentation 19: Application of artificial intelligence (AI) in durian safety and quality control: A "farm to table" whole-chain management model By Hoang Trung Hieu¹, Nguyen Manh Son¹, Nguyen Duc Phong², Pham Huu Vang³, Ta Thi Thao¹*, Nguyen Manh Ha¹, Bui Xuan Thanh¹ ¹ Faculty of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, University of Natural Sciences - VNU, Hanoi, Vietnam ² Traphaco Joint Stock Company, Hanoi, Vietnam ³ Faculty of Mathematics - Mechanics - Informatics, School of Natural Sciences, VNU, Hanoi, Vietnam Global food safety faces growing challenges from increasingly complex supply chains, particularly for sensitive products such as durian. Traditional testing based on manual sampling and laboratory analysis is often slow, limited in coverage, and unsuitable for real-time monitoring. This study reviews key applications of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance durian safety and quality across the value chain. AI integrated with spectral data, machine vision, sensor networks, and blockchain forms an intelligent control system. Deep learning enables early pest detection and chemical residue monitoring during cultivation, while machine learning and hyperspectral imaging support non-destructive quality sorting. AI-enabled traceability and predictive transport models further improve transparency and risk management, supporting a more proactive food safety approach. 19 Session 4: Young scientist (part 2) Co-chair: Nguyen Thi Kieu An and Tran Cao Son Presentation 20: Development of a modular light-up aptamer platform for selective fluorescence detection of Chloramphenicol By Nguyen Thu Huyen¹, Tran Thi Uyen Trang¹, Mai Thuy Linh¹, Pham Thanh Hien², Pham Thi Ngoc Mai¹, Pham Gia Bach¹* ¹ Faculty of Chemistry, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam ² Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam Chloramphenicol (CAP) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic banned in food-producing animals due to its serious health risks, yet it continues to be illicitly used, particularly in aquaculture. Existing detection methods, such as LCMS/MS, offer high sensitivity but are limited by their cost and operational complexity. Here, we report a label-free, fluorescence “light-up” aptamer sensor (S-CAP) for the rapid and sensitive detection of CAP. This modular sensor couples a CAP-binding aptamer with a sulforhodamine B (SRhB)-responsive aptamer through a rationally engineered transducer domain. Upon CAP binding, a structural rearrangement enhances SRhB fluorescence, generating a quantifiable signal. The sensor achieved a detection limit of 0.77 nM, with high specificity over other antibiotics. Validation in spiked shrimp and aquaculture water demonstrated recovery rates of 62.7–107.8% with relative standard deviations below 15%, and strong agreement with LC-MS/MS. This robust, cost-effective platform offers promising potential for routine CAP monitoring in food safety and environmental screening, especially in resource-constrained settings. Presentation 21: Development of molecularly imprinted polymers for the selective adsorption and preconcentration of Auramine O dye By Nguyen Thi Phuong Anh¹, Tran Dong Duong¹, Phan Thi Thanh Thuy¹, Nguyen Tuan Minh¹, Luu Thi Huyen Trang¹, Vu Thi Trang², Nguyen Thi Anh Huong¹, Pham Thi Ngoc Mai¹* ¹ Faculty of Chemistry, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Viet Nam ² National Institute for Food Control (NIFC), Hanoi, Viet Nam This study developed molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for the selective adsorption and enrichment of the prohibited dye Auramine O. The MIPs were synthesized by precipitation polymerization using methacrylic acid as the functional monomer and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as the cross-linker. Structural characterization (SEM, EDS, FT- IR) confirmed the formation of specific imprinted cavities. The materials exhibited a mesoporous structure with high surface area, enabling strong adsorption performance, with a maximum capacity of 125.5 mg g⁻¹ and high selectivity over similar dyes. An enrichment factor of 50 was achieved, and the MIPs showed good reusability over five cycles. Application to bamboo shoots produced recoveries of 78.5–96.9%, demonstrating suitability for routine food safety monitoring. Presentation 22: Study on the determination of ethylene oxide residues in selected dried fruit and vegetable products collected in Hanoi using GC-MS/MS By Vu Hoang Lien Huong¹, Dinh Viet Chien¹²*, Pham Van Chien¹², Nguyen Khanh Hung¹, Tran Thi Thanh Thao¹, Nguyen Thi Anh Huong¹, Le Thi Hong Hao¹² ¹ University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam ² National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a prohibited food disinfectant due to its carcinogenic and genotoxic properties, while its metabolite 2-chloroethanol (2-CE) also raises health concerns. This study optimized a GC-MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of EtO and 2-CE in dried fruits and vegetables. The method combined QuEChERS extraction with d-SPE clean-up and achieved good sensitivity, specificity, and linearity (R² > 0.996). Recoveries ranged from 94.8– 111% for EtO and 96.0–110% for 2-CE, with LODs of 3 µg/kg. Application to 15 samples from Hanoi showed no detectable EtO, while 2-CE was found in six samples, all below the EU maximum residue limit. 20 Presentation 23: Determination of multiple antibiotic residues in eggs using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry LC-MS/MS By Nguyen Phuong Mai¹²*, Nguyen Thi Anh Huong¹, Tran Cao Son², Luu Thi Huyen Trang¹² ¹ Faculty of Chemistry, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Viet Nam ² National Institute for Food Control (NIFC), Hanoi, Viet Nam Macrolides, fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides, and tetracyclines are widely used in poultry production, and misuse can result in antibiotic residues in eggs, posing public health risks. This study developed and validated an LC–MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of 12 antibiotics from these four groups in egg samples. The method showed high specificity and good linearity (R² > 0.995), with recoveries of 83.8–105% and repeatability (RSD) of 2.5– 12.4%. Limits of detection and quantification ranged from 15–50 µg/kg for tetracyclines and 3–10 µg/kg for other antibiotics. Analysis of 25 egg samples from Hanoi markets detected residues in four samples, including one with a high doxycycline level (1360 µg/kg), highlighting the need for strengthened market surveillance. Presentation 24: Screening for synthetic pharmaceutical substances in health supplements for diabetes, hypertension, and weight gain using HPLC-MS/MS By Chu Tuong Ngoc, Nguyen Trong Linh, Cao Huu Nghia, Chau Vinh Thi* Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Numerous studies have reported the illicit presence of synthetic pharmaceuticals, including banned substances, in health supplements. This study applied UHPLC–MS/MS to screen synthetic drugs in three supplement categories: diabetes support (metformin, gliclazide), hypertension support (captopril, nifedipine), and weight-gain support (cyproheptadine). A total of 240 samples (80 per category) were randomly collected in four provinces of southern Vietnam in 2020. The method demonstrated high specificity, with limits of detection of 0.01 ppm for all target compounds. Results showed no detection of metformin, gliclazide, captopril, nifedipine, or furosemide in their respective products. However, cyproheptadine was detected in one weight-gain supplement sample, highlighting ongoing risks of pharmaceutical adulteration in health supplements and the need for continued market surveillance. 21 Session 5: Poster presentation Assessment team: Vu Thi Trang, Sergei Zelenkin, Dang Xuan Sinh, Duangporn Pichpol The poster session comprised 29 posters, reflecting a broad and interdisciplinary contribution to food safety risk assessment and management in Vietnam. The posters collectively demonstrated strong coverage across the risk analysis spectrum, from hazard identification and method development to exposure assessment, risk characterization, and practical control options. Overall, the posters clustered into five major thematic areas. First, a large group of posters focused on microbiological hazards and diagnostic/monitoring approaches. This included work on optimizing and localising PCR-based detection of Salmonella spp. in raw food matrices, as well as studies 22 examining contamination patterns along production and distribution chains (e.g., poultry/meat supply chains). These contributions highlighted the need for rapid, accurate, and cost-effective tools that can support routine monitoring in domestic production systems, including small-scale farms, and strengthen laboratory-to-field applicability. Second, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in foods emerged as a prominent theme, particularly in ready-to-eat street foods and traditional fermented products. Several posters reported multidrug-resistant isolates and identified a range of clinically relevant microorganisms, raising concerns about informal food environments as potential reservoirs and transmission pathways for resistant organisms. These posters consistently pointed to the value of improved hygiene practices, vendor education, targeted interventions, and strengthened AMR surveillance integrated into food safety control strategies, especially for high-consumption food categories in urban settings. Third, a substantial portion of posters addressed chemical hazards and dietary exposure/risk assessment, spanning both conventional and emerging risks. Examples included assessments of trace metals in milk and dairy products, heavy metals and mineral profiles in rice, and risk-relevant contaminants such as nitrite (linked to nitrosamine formation), coumarin in cinnamon (with implications for labelling and export management), and patulin contamination in apple products. Several posters explicitly applied recognized risk metrics (e.g., Estimated Daily Intake, THQ/HI, and target cancer risk approaches) or referenced international frameworks and reference values, emphasizing the growing alignment of national research with international risk assessment practice. Fourth, many posters contributed to analytical method development and quality control, supporting market surveillance and regulatory enforcement. This included the development and validation of HPLC-based methods, LC– MS/MS assays, and capillary electrophoresis with conductivity detection for regulated or prohibited substances. Notably, some studies targeted illicit adulterants in dietary supplements (with direct relevance to consumer protection and regulatory action), while others developed fit-for-purpose methods for contaminants in specific matrices (e.g., aquaculture water monitoring). Posters on reference standard establishment also strengthened the link between laboratory science and governance by supporting consistent quantification and quality assurance. Fifth, the session showcased increasing adoption of emerging technologies and data-driven tools. Several posters applied machine learning and chemometrics (e.g., spectroscopy combined with modelling) to enhance authenticity and origin classification for agricultural and herbal products, supporting traceability and fraud prevention. Another strand introduced explainable AI (xAI) as a framework for personalized nutrition, emphasizing transparency and interpretability—an issue that is increasingly important when advanced modelling is used to inform public health and consumer-facing recommendations. The poster set also included a mini review on nanotechnology in food and packaging, outlining potential exposure concerns and identifying research and policy gaps relevant to Vietnam. In terms of institutional representation, the poster session was contributed by a diverse mix of universities, research centers, and regulatory/management bodies, underscoring strong cross-sector engagement. The university and academic research block was dominant, with multiple contributions from the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH) under the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), the VNU University of Science, the Vietnam National University of Agriculture (VNUA), the Hanoi University of Pharmacy, the Hanoi University of Public Health, the Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, the Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine and Pharmacy, and the Vietnam Military Medical University, alongside Phenikaa University. Several posters were anchored in specialized academic laboratories and research units, such as the Bioresource Research Center (Phenikaa University) and the Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology (KLEPT, VNU University of Science), highlighting strong technical capacity in molecular biology, analytical chemistry, and microbiology. The management/regulatory and applied surveillance block was represented by institutions directly involved in public health control and monitoring, most notably the National Institute for Food Control (NIFC) and the National Institute of Nutrition. Sub-national structures also appeared through contributors such as the Food Safety and Hygiene Division of Quang Ninh Province and a provincial quality control centre (Lao Cai), indicating engagement beyond central-level organizations. In addition, a number of posters demonstrated industry and applied partner involvement, including collaborations with TRAPHACO Joint Stock Company, veterinary-related companies, and other practice-oriented partners, reflecting growing linkages between academic research, product quality control, and market surveillance needs. 23 Collectively, the poster session demonstrated Vietnam’s expanding capacity to address both high-burden, long-standing food safety priorities (microbial contamination, AMR, and chemical hazards) and newer challenges (advanced analytical control tools, AI-enabled classification and traceability, and the governance implications of novel materials). The diversity of topics and contributors reinforced the importance of sustained collaboration between research institutions, regulators, and universities to strengthen evidence-based, risk-based food safety systems in Vietnam. 24 Annex 1: Agenda Time Content Convener Day 1: December 18, 2025 08:00– 08:30 Registration Organizing Committee 08:30– 09:00 Opening remarks VFA / NIFC / ILRI Session 1: Risk assessment and risk management Chair: Prof. Dr. Nguyen Cong Khan, Dr. Fred Unger (20 min presentation, discussion in the end) 09:00– 09:20 Digital framework for food safety risk assessment data: International insights and recommendations for Vietnam Tran Cao Son – NIFC 09:20– 09:40 Risk-informed food safety inspection and control: Strategic directions for modernizing national food control systems Tran Thi Dinh – SAFEGRO Project 09:40– 10:00 A risk-based approach to strengthen food safety assessment and interventions in traditional food value chains in Vietnam and the region Dang Xuan Sinh – ILRI 10:00– 10:15 Break 10:15– 10:35 Application of mathematical methods in health risk assessment Pavel Shur – FBSI, Russia 10:35– 10:55 Korean Total Diet Study (TDS) for dietary exposure assessment and food safety in Korea (online) Ock Jin Paek – MFDS, Korea 10:55– 11:15 Risk-based official controls – Case study from Ireland’s food control system Michelle Riblet – SFSI, Ireland 11:15– 12:00 Discussion: Panel: Prof. Nguyen Cong Khan, A/Prof. Tran Cao Son, Dr. Pavel Shur, Dr. Fred Unger and all participants Panel and participants 12:00– 13:30 Lunch break Session 2: Toxicological studies in risk assessment Chair: A/Prof. Dr. Tran Cao Son, Dr. Pavel Shur (The time includes 5 minutes Q&A) 13:30– 13:55 Research on the body's response to health risk factors Oleg Dolgikh – FBSI, Russia 13:55– 14:25 Modern approaches in food safety risk assessment – Next generation risk assessment for agricultural operators (online) Denise Bloch – BfR, Germany 25 14:25– 14:50 Design toxicology studies to assess health risks Dmitrii Suvorov – FBSI, Russia 14:50– 15:15 Epidemiological studies in health risk assessment Sergei Zelenkin – FBSI, Russia 15:15– 15:30 Break Session 3: Probabilistic risk assessment Chair: A/Prof. Tran Thi Dinh, Dr. Nguyen Viet Hung (The time includes 5 minutes Q&A) 15:30– 16:00 Probabilistic modelling in exposure and risk assessment – theory, practice and future (online) Matthias Greiner – BfR, Germany 16:00– 16:25 QMRA Salmonellosis infection in the Cambodian meat value chain, from traditional markets to consumers Rortana Chea – Cambodia 16:25– 16:50 Exposure assessment and risk characterization of Salmonella contamination in chicken in Hanoi and surrounding areas Nguyen Tuan Thanh – NIFC 16:50– 17:15 Risk assessment of food processing contaminants in Viet Nam Nguyen Thi Hong Ngoc – NIFC Day 2: December 19, 2025 Session 4: Young Scientist (Part 1) Conference Hall Chair: Prof. Nguyen Cong Khan, Dr. Le Thi Phuong Thao (The time includes 5 minutes Q&A) 08:00– 08:20 Improving PCR techniques for detection of Listeria sp. in raw milk Le Duong Dieu Hang – Phenikaa University 08:20– 08:40 Geographical origin classification of Vietnamese turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) based on UV–Vis and FTIR spectra combined with machine learning Nguyen Ha Anh – Vietnam Academy of Traditional Medicine and Pharmacy 08:40– 09:00 Identification of some probiotic bacteria strains of the genus Lactobacillus using molecular biology methods Dang Thi Thu Hien – Institute of Drug Quality Control Ho Chi Minh City 09:00– 09:20 Evaluation of Nitrite (NO₂⁻) Content in Street Food (Processed Meat) and its Exposure to Human Pham Thi Khuyen – University of Sciences, VNU Hanoi 09:20– 09:40 Application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Durian Safety and Quality Control: A “Farm to Table” Whole-Chain Management Model Nguyen Manh Son – University of Sciences, VNU Hanoi 09:40– 10:00 Break Session 4: Young Scientist (Part 2) 26 Conference Hall Chair: A/Prof. Nguyen Thi Kieu Anh; A/Prof. Tran Cao Son (The time includes 5 minutes Q&A) 10:00– 10:20 Development of a Modular Light-Up Aptamer Platform for Selective Fluorescence Detection of Chloramphenicol Nguyen Thu Huyen – University of Sciences, VNU Hanoi 10:20– 10:40 Development of molecularly imprinted polymers for the selective adsorption and preconcentration of Auramine O dye Nguyen Thi Phuong Anh – University of Sciences, VNU Hanoi 10:40– 11:00 Study on the determination of ethylene oxide residues in selected dried fruit and vegetable products collected in Hanoi using GC-MS/MS Vu Hoang Lien Huong – University of Sciences, VNU Hanoi 11:00– 11:20 Determination of multiple antibiotic residues in eggs using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC– MS/MS) Nguyen Phuong Mai – NIFC 11:20– 11:40 Screening of synthetic pharmaceutical chemicals: Diabetes, blood pressure support, weight gain in health protection foods using HPLC-MS/MS Chu Tuong Ngoc – Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City 08:30– 11:00 Poster Presentation (5 min presentation and 5 min Q&A) Assessment team 11:40– 12:00 Closing 27 Annex 2: Participating organizations Organization Lao Cai Department of Health Hanoi University of Pharmacy Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment Phenikaa University Thai Nguyen University of Medicine and Pharmacy Embassy of the Republic of Korea Vietnam National University of Agriculture Institute of Drug Quality Control Ho Chi Minh City FBSI Ho Chi Minh City Center for Testing University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH) – Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) Bac Ninh Food Safety Sub-Department Dong Nai Department of Health Institute of Chemistry Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) U.S. Embassy Dong Nai Testing Center Lai Chau Sub-Department of Food Safety and Hygiene Son La Sub-Department of Food Safety and Hygiene Agriculture and Environment Newspaper Labor Health Newspaper Ha Tinh Food Safety Sub-Department Phu Tho Department of Health RETAQ Can Tho Department of Health Department of Livestock Production and Animal Health Phu Tho Food Safety Sub-Department Thai Nguyen Center for Drug, Cosmetic and Food Control (Provincial Department of Health & Ministry of Health) Lai Chau Food Safety Sub-Department Quang Tri Food Safety Sub-Department 28 JICA ERASD Project National Institute of Nutrition Hai Phong Sub-Department of Food Safety and Hygiene An Giang Department of Health VPHC AP, Chiang Mai University (CMU) National University of Laos (NUoL) Vietnam Academy of Traditional Medicine and Pharmacy Tay Nguyen Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology Ho Chi Minh City Institute of Public Health Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Environment Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang Binh Dinh Sub-Department of Food Safety and Hygiene International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) Central Institute of Drug Quality Control Nghe An Center for Disease Control (CDC) Lang Son Provincial Department of Health Nghe An Provincial Department of Health Vietnam Food Administration (VFA) Drug, Cosmetic and Food Testing Center of Hue Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City World Health Organization (WHO) Song Lo District Medical Center Military Medical Academy Ha Giang Sub-Department of Food Safety and Hygiene Spomedic Phu Tho Provincial General Hospital VNU University of Engineering and Technology (VNU-UET) Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) VNU University of Science (VNU-HUS) Thai Nguyen Testing Center Center for Testing and Quality Assurance Services (TT KNC và DVCL) Thai Nguyen University 8ESI University of Economics – Technology for Industries (UNETI) 29 Cao Bang Sub-Department of Food Safety and Hygiene Hanoi Food Safety Sub-Department National Institute of Veterinary Research Bio E lite Hanoi Sub-Department of Livestock Production and Animal Health (CNTS & TY) Embassy of Ireland Ninh Binh Food Safety Sub-Department Hau Giang Sub-Department of Food Safety and Hygiene University of Public Health General Department of Animal Health and Animal Production, Cambodia (GDAHR), Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), Cambodia 30 Annex 3: Poster abstracts Poster 1: Optimizing PCR techniques for accurate detection of Salmonella spp. in raw meat sample By Nguyen Hoang Ha Linh¹, Tran Huu Phong¹², Pham Bao Yen³, Nguyen Hong Minh¹²* ¹ Faculty of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Phenikaa School of Engineering, Phenikaa University, Hanoi, Vietnam ² Bioresource Research Center, Phenikaa School of Engineering, Phenikaa University, Hanoi, Vietnam ³ Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology (KLEPT), VNU University of Science, Hanoi, Vietnam Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illness and is commonly associated with improperly processed or handled foods. This study aimed to develop a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective domestically produced PCR kit for detecting Salmonella spp. in food. Pork, chicken, eggs, and raw milk samples were pre-enriched in Buffered Peptone Water and cultured on XLD selective medium. Suspected colonies were identified by morphology, followed by DNA extraction and PCR amplification using Salmonella enterica–specific primers. Initial results showed reliable DNA extraction and successful PCR detection of Salmonella in food matrices. These findings provide a basis for further optimization of the kit, which has strong potential for routine food safety monitoring in domestic production systems and small-scale livestock farms. Poster 2: Nanotechnology in food and food packaging: Implications for risk assessment and research gaps in Vietnam By Nguyen Hoang Linh, Nguyen Thi Tuyet Nhung* Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH), Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam Nanotechnology is increasingly used in food packaging, processing, preservation, and dietary supplements, raising concerns about consumer exposure and potential health risks. International research has examined engineered nanomaterials in food contact materials, proposed risk-assessment frameworks, and highlighted uncertainties related to toxicokinetics, long-term effects, and combined exposures. However, implications for food safety risk assessment in Vietnam remain underexplored. This mini-review summarizes key food-related nanotechnology applications relevant to the Vietnamese market, reviews international risk-assessment approaches and guidance, and identifies current evidence, policy developments, and research gaps in Vietnam. The findings aim to support regulators, researchers, and industry in strengthening science-based management of nanotechnology-related food safety risks. Poster 3: Response surface methodology for optimizing ultrasound-assisted extraction of total saponin and phenolic contents from Codonopsis javanica roots By Nguyen Pham Thanh Chung¹, Nguyen Tan An¹, Nguyen Phuong Anh¹, Pham Hoang Nam¹* ¹ Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam DangShen (Codonopsis javanica) is a valuable medicinal plant in Vietnam, rich in saponins and phenolic compounds. This study optimized an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method to maximize total saponin content (TSC) and total phenolic content (TPC) from roots collected in Kontum Province. Extraction parameters were optimized using single- factor experiments combined with Box–Behnken Design and Response Surface Methodology. Under optimal conditions (≈50 °C, 70% ethanol, 11 mL/g solvent ratio, ~51 min), the predicted extraction yield was 24.12%, with TPC of 32.69 mg GAE/g DW and TSC of 15.45 mg AEE/g DW. Validation confirmed good agreement with model predictions, demonstrating the efficiency and industrial potential of the optimized UAE method. Poster 4: Antimicrobial Resistance in Ready-to-Eat Street Foods: A preliminary study in Hanoi urban By Pham Minh Ngoc, Nguyen Quang Trung, Vu Lan Anh, Nguyen Van Phuong, Pham Hoang Nam* 31 Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam Street foods are widely consumed in Vietnam, yet their microbiological safety remains poorly characterized. This study evaluated bacterial contamination and antibiotic resistance in three popular ready-to-eat meals (RTEMs) from five Hanoi districts: Bánh tráng trộn (mixed rice paper salad), Nem thính (fermented pork), and Tào phớ (soy pudding). Fifteen samples were analyzed for total aerobic mesophilic counts and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB). Our results showed that while all samples met Vietnamese regulatory standards (≤ 5×10⁶ CFU/g), 60% exceeded the recommended threshold of 5×10⁵ CFU/g. ARB were detected in all samples at rates of 4.9-7.2%. All 38 isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR); 42% were resistant to ≥ 5 antibiotics, including last-resort agents ertapenem and colistin. MALDI-TOF MS identified pathogenic species including Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, E. hormaechei, Staphylococcus aureus, Comamonas aquatica and Escherichia coli. These findings reveal significant antimicrobial resistance in Hanoi street foods, highlighting urgent needs for vendor education, hygiene interventions, and AMR surveillance in informal food systems. Poster 5: Nitrite risk in Vietnamese fermented vegetables and lab starter culture – based safety control: an overview By Nguyen Phuong Thao, Nguyen Thi Tuyet Nhung* Department of Life Science, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi Fermented vegetables are widely consumed in Vietnam but are often produced by spontaneous fermentation, leading to unpredictable microbial composition, pH changes, and nitrite formation. Nitrates in vegetables are rapidly converted to nitrite during the first 2–4 days of fermentation, with nitrite declining only after pH drops below 4.5, highlighting the importance of acidification kinetics. Risk assessment frameworks (EFSA, FAO/WHO, JECFA) identify nitrite as a chemical hazard due to methemoglobinemia and N-nitrosamine formation, with an ADI of 0.06–0.07 mg/kg bw/day. High nitrite levels from spontaneous fermentation can significantly contribute to dietary exposure. Using lactic acid bacteria starter cultures, particularly Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, accelerates acidification and nitrite degradation, offering an effective strategy to improve safety and consistency in traditional fermented vegetables. Poster 6: Traditional fermented foods as reservoirs of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms: A case study in Hanoi urban By Nguyen Vi Dang, Tran Do Quang Duong, Nguyen Quynh Huong, Phan Thi Sao Chi, Nguyen Van Phuong¹, Pham Hoang Nam* ¹ Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health concern. This study assessed antibiotic-resistant microorganisms in traditional fermented foods commonly consumed in Hanoi, including Nem chua, Mắm tép, Cà muối, and kimchi. Thirty-six isolates collected from five urban districts showed high total bacterial loads, with many samples exceeding national limits. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that 86.1% of isolates were multidrug resistant. The highest resistance rates were observed for ciprofloxacin (94.4%) and tetracycline (91.7%), followed by ertapenem and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. MALDI-TOF MS identified diverse bacteria and yeasts, including Escherichia coli, Enterobacter spp., Enterococcus spp., and Candida spp. These findings highlight hygiene gaps and the potential role of traditional fermented foods as reservoirs for AMR transmission. Poster 7: Production of the kumquat syrup to use as a kumquat drink By Nguyen Quang Viet¹, Nguyen Vu Ngoc Thanh², Nguyen Thi Minh Huyen¹* ¹ Life science Department, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam ² Institute of Physics, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam 32 Kumquat (Fortunella spp.) is widely grown in Vietnam and valued for its distinctive flavor and high content of vitamin C, organic acids, and antioxidants. This study developed kumquat syrup from fresh juice and optimized key processing steps, including juice extraction, sugar blending, pasteurization, and hot-filling into sterilized glass bottles, without added preservatives. Product quality was evaluated after six months of storage at 4 °C using physicochemical and chemical analyses. The syrup retained an appealing color, balanced sweetness and acidity, stable viscosity, moderate vitamin C levels, and notable antioxidant activity. Reducing sugar results confirmed the desired sweetness profile. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of producing high-quality kumquat syrup and support its potential for small- scale and functional beverage production. Poster 8: Evaluation of trace metals in milk and milk products and human health risk assessment By Tran Hoang Minh Anh*, Bui Van Hoi Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam Dairy products are key components of the human diet but can also contribute to exposure to trace metals. This study analyzed ten elements (Ca, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb) in 25 milk and dairy products sold in Hanoi, Vietnam using ICP-MS. Products included cow milk, plant-based milk, yogurt, and cheese. Health risks were assessed through Estimated Daily Intake, Target Hazard Quotient, Hazard Index, and Target Cancer Risk. All toxic metal levels were well below national and international limits. THQ, HI, and TCR values indicated no non-carcinogenic or carcinogenic risks. Cow milk was richest in essential minerals, while plant-based milk showed higher Cu and Ni. Continuous monitoring is recommended. Poster 9: Milking hygiene practices and Escherichia coli contamination in milk from dairy household farms in Gialam, Hanoi By Vu Thi Thu Tra¹*, Vu Thi Hien², Tran Thi Thanh³, Chu Thi Thanh Huong¹, Nguyen Thi Thanh Ha¹, Tran Thi Huong Giang¹ ¹ Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam ² Vietnam VMC Manufacturing and Trading Joint Stock Company, Ninhbinh, Vietnam ³ Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Material Joint Stock Company (HANVET), Hungyen, Vietnam Escherichia coli is a common intestinal bacterium and an important indicator of hygiene in milk, reflecting fecal contamination. This study assessed milking hygiene practices and the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of E. coli in milk from 82 household dairy farms in Gia Lâm, Hanoi (May–September 2023). Most farms used milking machines (79.27%), and all cleaned udders before milking, but only 39.02% applied teat disinfectants. E. coli was detected in 51.22% of samples. Resistance was most frequent to ampicillin (16.67%), followed by cefotaxime and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. Overall, 26.19% of isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic, including two multidrug-resistant strains, highlighting the need to improve hygiene and antimicrobial management. Poster 10: Antibiotic resistance of Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolated from oysters in Quang Ninh, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An, Vietnam By Tran Minh Anh¹*, Vu Quynh Huong¹, Nguyen Quoc Anh² ¹ Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam ² Department of Food Microbiology and Molecular Biology, National Institute of Nutrition, Hanoi, Vietnam Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a major cause of seafood-borne illness, commonly associated with raw oyster consumption. This study assessed the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of V. parahaemolyticus in oysters from Quang Ninh, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An, Vietnam. Ninety-two live oyster samples were collected from markets and analyzed using ISO/TS 21872-1:2007 with PCR confirmation. The pathogen was detected in 26.09% of samples. Thirty-nine isolates were tested against twelve antibiotics. High resistance was observed to ampicillin (84.6%), cefepime (74.4%), and amoxicillin-clavulanate (43.6%), while all isolates remained susceptible to imipenem and ciprofloxacin. Notably, 66.7% of isolates were multidrug-resistant, underscoring significant public health concerns related to oyster consumption. 33 Poster 11: Geographical origin classification of Vietnamese turmeric (Curcuma Longa L.) based on UV-Vis and FTIR spectra combined with machine learning By Nguyen Thu Ha¹, Nguyen Thi Van Anh¹, Nguyen Duc Phong², Nguyen Duc Thanh³* ¹ Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine and Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam ² TRAPHACO Joint stock company, Hanoi, Vietnam ³ Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi, Viet Nam A simple technique was developed to determine the geographical origin of Vietnamese turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) using UV-Vis and FTIR spectral data combined with machine learning models. A total of 160 turmeric samples collected from four northern provinces of Vietnam were measured UV-Vis and IR spectra. Spectral data was preprocessed using SNV, Savitzky-Golay and SPA algorithms to minimize measurement variability and reduce data dimensionality. Both supervised and unsupervised machine learning models were developed for geographic classification. The results showed that supervised models yielded high classification accuracy: the Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) model achieved the highest accuracy with 97.92% for UV-Vis and 95.83% for IR data. The SVMLDA hybrid model also performed well, with accuracies of 95.83% (UV-Vis) and 93.75% (IR). The findings highlight the potential of spectral data and machine learning in the traceability of medicinal herbs in Vietnam. Poster 12: Coumarin in cinnamon: Factors affecting content and food safety risks By Bui Thi Lan Phuong¹², Tran Le Hoa³, Ngo Quang Trung¹, Nguyen Thi Kieu Anh²* ¹ National Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Vietnam ² Faculty of Analytical Chemistry and Drug Quality Control, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Vietnam ³ Lao Cai provincial quality control center, Vietnam Cinnamon is a valuable medicinal herb and spice with high economic importance, but its coumarin content raises food safety concerns due to potential hepatotoxicity. This study determined coumarin levels and influencing factors in 233 cinnamon bark samples harvested in March and August from major producing provinces in Vietnam. Coumarin was quantified by HPLC-PDA, and factor effects were analyzed using ANOVA. Coumarin content ranged from 0.01–0.91%. Origin and harvest season significantly affected coumarin levels, whereas bark thickness and initial processing did not. Yen Bai samples showed the highest levels (0.529–0.859%), while Quang Ninh samples were lowest (0.018–0.092%). August-harvested cinnamon contained less coumarin than March harvests. Clear labeling of origin and harvest season is therefore essential for food safety and export management. Poster 13: Establishment of a characteristic diterpenoid reference standard for Croton tonkinensis Gagnep. By Nguyen Khac Tung¹²*, Dao Tham Quan², Nguyen Ngoc Mai², Nguyen Viet Phuong Huyen², Nguyen Thi Kieu Anh¹, Phuong Thien Thuong³ ¹ Faculty of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Hanoi University of Pharmacy ² Faculty of Pharmaceutics, Thai Nguyen University of Medicine and Pharmacy ³ Vietnam - Korea Institute of Science and Technology Croton tonkinensis Gagnep. is widely used in Vietnamese traditional medicine, but reliable safety assessment requires accurate quantification of a relevant marker compound. This study reports the isolation and standardization of CT1, the major ent-kaurane diterpenoid and official marker of C. tonkinensis. CT1 was purified from leaves and structurally confirmed by NMR, HR-ESI-MS, and UV–Vis spectroscopy. Following WHO TRS 943 and ISO Guide 35, purity, impurities, homogeneity, stability, and inter-laboratory reproducibility were evaluated. Using a mass-balance approach, CT1 purity was assigned at 98.33 ± 0.05%. A batch of 100 vials met all quality criteria. The established primary reference standard strengthens pharmacopoeial analysis, regulatory quality control, and chemical risk assessment of C. tonkinensis herbal products. 34 Poster 14: Research results on detection of Salmonella spp contamination and popularity of important antibiotic resistance genes during chicken meat supply chain By Dang Thi Thanh Son¹*, Pelligand Ludovic², Pham Thi Hoa³, Conan A³, Blake D², Tran Thi Nhat¹, Pham Viet Hung¹, Tomley Fiona² ¹ National Institute of Veterinary Research ² Royal Veterinary College, London, UK ³ CIRAD (French Agricultural Research Center for International Development) Vietnam’s poultry sector continues to grow strongly, with over 584 million birds and 2.43 million tons of meat produced in 2024. This study (2021–2023) assessed Salmonella contamination and antimicrobial resistance in chicken waste from farms, slaughterhouses, and markets in northern Vietnam. Salmonella prevalence was highest at slaughterhouses (50%) and markets (44%), compared with farms (21.7%), indicating significant cross-contamination risks. All 114 cecal samples contained antibiotic resistance genes, with 31 genes detected across eight antibiotic groups, notably aminoglycosides and tetracyclines. These findings highlight the need to strengthen hygiene control along the supply chain, improve antibiotic stewardship, promote probiotics, and enhance biosecurity to ensure food safety and sustainable poultry development. Poster 15: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of Silymarin in medicines and functional foods using HPLC-DAD By Truong Nhat Khanh*, Huynh Ngoc Duy, Phan Nguyen Truong Thang, Nguyen Thi Thinh, Le Hong Hai, Tran Viet Hung Institute of Drug Quality Control Ho Chi Minh Silymarin, a flavonoid complex from Silybum marianum, is widely used in medicines and functional foods to support liver health, yet its content varies markedly among commercial products. This study developed and validated a robust HPLC-DAD method for qualitative and quantitative analysis of silymarin in raw materials, tablets, and soft gel capsules. Separation was achieved on a C18 column using a methanol–KH₂PO₄ buffer (pH 2.3) gradient and detection at 288 nm. The method showed high specificity, excellent linearity (0.0012–1 mg/mL, r = 0.9999), low LOD/LOQ, and satisfactory accuracy and precision (RSD ≤ 2%). Application to 50 products revealed substantial variability, confirming its suitability for quality control and market surveillance. Poster 16: Evaluation of anthocyanin content in common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) from three regions in Vietnam and optimization of anthocyanin extraction method By Le Hong Luyen*, Thanh Van Ha Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are widely consumed in Vietnam and represent an important dietary source of anthocyanins. This study evaluated total anthocyanin content (TAC) in six bean types, optimized anthocyanin extraction from black beans using Box–Behnken design and characterized anthocyanin profiles by HPLC-DAD. Black beans showed the highest TAC (0.478 ± 0.058 mg/g), followed by red kidney beans, while other types contained significantly lower levels. Optimal extraction conditions yielded 0.47 ± 0.025 mg/g (DW). Four anthocyanins were identified, with delphinidin-3-glucoside predominating (54–64%) across regions. These results provide a scientific basis for further exploration of the nutritional and health potential of Vietnamese common beans. 35 Poster 17: Evaluation of selected characteristics of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens as a basis for probiotic production in livestock farming By Tran Ngoc Dat¹, Le Thi Xuan Mai¹, Nguyen Vu Ngoc Thanh², Nguyen Thi Minh Huyen¹* ¹ Department of Life Science, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi, Vietnam ² Institute of Physics, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi, Vietnam Reducing antibiotic use while improving animal health is a key priority in modern livestock production, driving interest in probiotic feed supplements. This study selected and evaluated two promising probiotic strains, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Following isolation and identification by MALDI-TOF MS, strains were assessed for catalase activity, lactic acid production, digestive enzyme synthesis (amylase, protease, cellulase), and inhibition of Escherichia coli under co-culture conditions. Both strains were catalase-positive, produced multiple digestive enzymes, and generated lactic acid, supporting nutrient digestion and gut balance. Notably, they showed strong competitive growth and effectively inhibited E. coli, highlighting their potential as probiotic candidates for sustainable livestock production. Poster 18: Optimization of a modified QuEChERS method of experimental design for vitamin B2, B3, B6 and B9 in powder formula milk by HPLC/DAD By Ngoc-Van Nguyen Thi¹, Ngan Tuyet Duong, Thanh Tuan Pham ¹ Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Can Tho City This study aimed to optimize extraction and clean-up conditions for B-group vitamins in powdered infant formula using HPLC-DAD. Key parameters of a modified QuEChERS method were optimized through Box–Behnken and Resolution IV screening designs. Under optimal conditions, the method was applied to quantify vitamins B2, B3, B6, and B9 by HPLC- PDA following AOAC and ICH guidelines. Recoveries ranged from 83.55 to 108.43%, with intra-day and inter-day RSDs of 1.66–2.75% and 0.47–4.78%, respectively. The method achieved low detection limits and analysis times under 25 minutes. Overall, the validated approach demonstrated high accuracy, precision, and efficiency, supporting routine determination of B vitamins in powdered formula milk. Poster 19: Application of explainable Artificial Intelligence in personalized nutrition By Nguyen Manh Son¹, Nguyen Duc Phong¹², Pham Huu Vang³, Do Hong Phuong⁴, Nguyen Thi Kim Thuong¹, Nguyen Manh Ha¹, Bui Xuan Thanh¹, Ta Thi Thao¹* ¹ Faculty of Chemistry, VNU University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam ² TRAPHACO Joint Stock Company, Hanoi, Vietnam ³ Faculty of Mathematics, Mechanics and Informatics, VNU University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam ⁴ Department Food Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Hanoi, Vietnam Precision nutrition is increasingly important for preventing and managing diet-related diseases, particularly non- communicable conditions such as obesity, whose global prevalence has risen sharply. However, conventional machine- learning models in this field often lack transparency and show limited generalizability across individuals with diverse biological and lifestyle characteristics. This study proposes an explainable artificial intelligence (xAI) framework that combines advanced modeling techniques with multi-layered explanations, including model-based, example-based, and mechanistic approaches. The framework integrates multimodal data to identify key drivers of individual nutritional responses. Results demonstrate its potential to deliver transparent, interpretable, and evidence-based personalized dietary recommendations, supporting clinicians, dietitians, and end-users in informed decision-making. 36 Poster 20: Improving the classification accuracy of orange varieties and origins based on chemical composition using machine learning algorithms and SMOTE data balancing By Nguyen Manh Son¹, Nguyen Duc Phong¹², Pham Huu Vang³, Nguyen Thi Van Anh⁴, Le Thi Hong Hao¹⁵, Nguyen Thi Dung¹, Nguyen Manh Ha¹, Bui Xuan Thanh¹, Nguyen Duc Thanh⁶, Ta Thi Thao¹* ¹ Faculty of Chemistry, VNU University of Science, Hanoi, Vietnam ² TRAPHACO Joint Stock Company, Hanoi, Vietnam ³ Faculty of Mathematics, Mechanics and Informatics, VNU University of Science, Hanoi, Vietnam ⁴ Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine and Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam ⁵ National Institute for Food Control, Ha Noi, Vietnam ⁶ Vietnam Military Medical University, Ha Noi, Vietnam Aut