FDA approves Phageguard E (PGE) as new food processing aid against E. coli O157

WAGENINGEN, The Netherlands, September 18, 2018 – FDA & USDA announced they have approved
Phageguard E (PGE) as a “GRAS” (Generally Recognized as Safe) food processing aid against E.coli O157. The new product consists of natural phages against E. coli and is produced by Phageguard of The Netherlands. The
company confirms that industrial scale projects with US meat processing companies are set to start shortly.

Phageguard, a pioneer in targeted pathogen reduction technology continues to expand its product portfolio.
Today it announced that PGE, a new surface intervention to combat E. coli O157 on food
products, will now be available for the US beef industry. The findings are of particular interest to beef
processors looking for natural and effective post harvest interventions, reducing E. coli O157 on beef
carcasses, primals, subs and trimmings. Recent research conducted at the University of Neveda, Reno
demonstrated superior results of PGE surface spray on E. coli O157 contaminated fresh cold
beef over currently used chemicals.

Phages are the natural enemy of bacteria. Unlike harsh chemical interventions, phages are harmless to
plant workers and do not damage equipment, concrete floors and water-treatment installations. This
makes Phageguard a smart, green and easy to apply solution. As a natural product it meets increasing
consumers’ demand for minimal use of chemicals. Unlike traditional chemical treatments, PGE kills E. coli without affecting the organoleptic properties of treated food products, such as taste, odor or texture.

Bert de Vegt, Managing Director at Phageguard: ‘Raw or undercooked ground meat products remain the primary source of STEC concern and outbreaks. We’re pleased to be adding this tool to support the US meat processors in their constant quest to deliver safe food, and we look forward to working with the industry to implement the technology. Food safety is a non-competitive priority for all.’