Abstract
This study describes a full decade of outbreak reporting data in Germany. Over the 10-year period from 2015 to 2024, a total of 3,021 foodborne outbreaks were investigated by the German Federal States. Annual trends in outbreak frequency, causative agents, and clinical outcomes, including case numbers, hospitalisations, and deaths, are presented and discussed. Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. were the leading causes of outbreaks. Of all reported outbreaks, only 9.9% were clarified with sufficient evidence enabling detailed analysis regarding causative foods, places of exposure, and contributing factors. Food vehicles are categorized and analysed to elucidate trends over time and their association with causative pathogens or agents. Furthermore, the primary exposure settings, the sites of processing or handling failures, and the underlying contributory factors are identified. The study´s findings are discussed against the background of risk management actions and options. In conclusion, the analysis of outbreak data, including causative foods, agents, and trends, yields critical insights to inform risk managers, consumers, and food business operators in order to prevent future foodborne outbreaks.