Nanoparticles based sensors for rapid detection of foodborne pathogens

Rapid detection of foodborne pathogens is a key step in the control of food related diseases. Conventional methods for the detection of food pathogens, although typically sensitive, often require multiple time-consuming steps such as extraction, isolation, enrichment, counting, etc., prior to measurement, resulting in testing times which can be days. There is a need to develop rapid and sensitive detection methods. This review is intended to provide food scientists and engineers an overview of current rapid detection methods, a close look at the nanoparticles especially magnetic nanoparticle-antibody conjugates based methods, and identification of knowledge gaps and future research needs.