2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): The objective is to develop toxin production probability models for S. aureus in ham and sausage products. The models will assist manufacturers of ham and sausage products in selection of product formulations and storage conditions to reduce the risk associated with S. aureus. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): Laboratory experiments on the toxin production in ham and sausage inoculated with S. aureus during storage at different temperatures are being conducted in the Cooperator's laboratory. The ARS scientist and the Cooperator will jointly analyze the data and develop probability models. Additional laboratory experiments with S. aureus-inoculated ham and sausage products will be conducted at ERRC to validate the developed models. 3.Progress Report: This report documents research conducted under a Non Funded Cooperative Agreement between ARS and the Kangwon University. The university cooperators are conducting laboratory experiments on the toxin production of Staphylococcus aureus in sausage at different storage temperatures. Project researchers are jointly analyzing the data to design additional studies and develop probability models. Laboratory experiments will be conducted at ERRC to validate the developed models. Project researchers have completed a study examining the probability of toxin production of Bacillus cereus in a broth model as affected by pH and temperature and a manuscript reporting the study was submitted to a peer-reviewed journal.