Keith Belk, PhD
Dr. Keith Belk is the Director of Eurofins’ Advanced Learning Institute and Professor and Holder of the Monfort Endowed Chair, Center for Meat Safety & Quality, Colorado State University (CSU), and as an Adjunct Professor in the Colorado School of Public Health. Previously, he served as Professor and Head of the Department of Animal Sciences at CSU. He earned B.S. and M.S. degrees from CSU, and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University. He currently serves in a consulting role as the Director of Education for Eurofins Rapid Microbiology Laboratories, LLC. Dr. Belk is also a member of the International Committee for the National Western Stock Show, the Board of Directors for the International Stockmen’s Educational Foundation, on the Academic Advisory Committee for the Meat Institute Protein PACT, and on the technical advisory committees for Sustainable Beef, JBS, Colorado Premium Foods, and Hawkins.
Below are resources from Dr. Keith Belk:
Eurofins Rapid Microbiology Laboratories announces the appointment of Dr. John Henson as Director of Technical Services. With 26+ years of experience in meat science, food safety, academia, and industry consulting, Dr. Henson brings extensive technical expertise and leadership to support Eurofins’ growing scientific and client programs.
The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) is rolling out important updates to General Chapters <2021> and <2022> and, taking effect on April 1, 2026. For manufacturers who rely on microbiological testing to ensure product quality and regulatory compliance, understanding what’s changing and what actions are required is essential.
Important upcoming updates to USP Chapters <2021> and <2022 went into effect on April 1, 2026. These changes modify several microbiological testing requirements, including incubation times, suitability testing, and enrichment steps for specific organisms. Check out our answers to frequently asked questions about the updates.
Explore how to comply with FSIS guidance for ready-to-eat fermented, salt-cured, and dried products with an effective validation study balancing scientific rigor, processing expertise, and craftsmanship. This article outlines how to achieve the right balance in your validation approach and how strong, data‑driven studies ultimately enhance the safety, consistency, and reliability of dried and fermented meat products.
This research poster evaluates how lactic acid interventions and high‑pressure pasteurization reduce Salmonella and Listeria in dried and fermented ready‑to‑eat salami.
Eurofins Rapid Microbiology Laboratories introduces the Advanced Learning Institute, offering accredited food safety training programs from HACCP, SQF, BRCGS, and FSPCA to practical courses on sanitation, Listeria management, auditing, and more for food manufacturers and professionals.
Selecting the right microbiological testing method isn’t just about speed or cost. It’s about risk management, product integrity, and regulatory compliance. Click to read about the strengths and limitations of different methodologies essential to avoid false negatives, regulatory citations, or costly recalls.
Bird Flu (H5N1) is spreading among birds, cattle, and humans. Experts warn it may be just one mutation away from human-to-human transmission.
Whole genome sequencing is no longer just a research tool. It’s a critical asset in food safety, outbreak response, and public health protection. Read our blog to learn more about whole genome sequencing and how it helps us better understand organisms like Salmonella and Cronobacter in food and infant formula.
Eurofins announces the formation of Eurofins Rapid Microbiology Laboratories, LLC, enhancing rapid testing speed, accuracy, and service for U.S. perishable markets.
