DPI&F, the peak Queensland government body for science, research and development, is a sapphire sponsor of the congress, which runs from 30 June to 4 July 2008.

DPI&F Acting Science Leader Dave Jordan said work set to bust food-borne pathogen myths would be among the Queensland DPI&F research on show during the event.

"We know some communities are concerned about contamination from food-borne pathogens, waste and by-products of chicken production, and over the years DPI&F has conducted a lot of research into whether this myth has merit," Mr Jordan said.

"The results are good news for Queensland communities, and for the poultry industry.

"Scientific research from DPI&F is helping rural industries and communities to co-exist; something which is really important with the growing peri-urban phenomenon currently underway in Queensland.

"Our research has shown that even for people standing up to 10 metres from poultry shed exhaust fans, there is no realistic risk of acquiring food-borne pathogen infection.

"We have also found that food-borne pathogens in compost die rapidly when exposed to the environment - something that many people don´t realise.

"Other research being profiled at the conference shows new ways to improve food safety. This work will form the basis of best practice litter management guidelines, helping to ensure a safe product and healthy environment," Mr Jordan said.

DPI&F is also working on projects to ensure high quality eggs with less cracked shells, shade and vegetation belts to enrich the environment for free range hens.