Peixoto, AndreiaNova, LúciaMourão, JoanaMatos, CátiaSantos, SusanaRodrigues, JoãoSaraiva, MargaridaCorreia, Cristina BeloBatista, RitaPeixe, LuísaNovais, CarlaAntunes, Patrícia2026-02-042026-02-042025-09-17http://hdl.handle.net/10400.18/10802Bacterial hazards on contaminated surfaces in food-processing environments pose significant food safety risks. Hygiene monitoring of surfaces in direct or indirect contact with food typically relies on a limited set of bacterial indicators, such as Enterobacteriaceae counts. However, their genomic diversity remains poorly characterised. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive genomic characterisation of Enterobacteriaceae recovered from food-contact surfaces after cleaning and disinfection with biocides in foodservice units. Diverse strains were identified, with some STs shared across samples and/or foodservices. - A diverse Enterobacteriaceae population persists on food-contact surfaces even after cleaning and disinfection with biocides, with evidence of cross-contamination. - These surfaces represent critical points of contact for strains that are genetically similar to those circulating in food, environment, and human clinical sources, including strains carrying clinically relevant AMR genes. - Further research is needed to understand the factors driving their persistence and dissemination in foodservice environments, aiming to enhance food safety risk management protocols and protect public health.engEnterobacteriaceaeAmbiente ProduçãoHigiene SuperfíciesSegurança AlimentarCaracterização GenómicaResistência AntimicrobianaGenes Virulênciaconference object