Advancements in Detection Methods for Salmonella in Food: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Food safety and microbiology
• Pathogen detection technologies

Background:

• Non-typhoidal Salmonella is a leading cause of gastrointestinal illness in North America.
• Significant healthcare and economic burdens are associated with Salmonella infections.
• Food safety regulations necessitate early pathogen detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current methods for detecting Salmonella in the food supply.
• To highlight emerging technologies for improved Salmonella detection.

Main Methods:

• Review of culture-based, immunological, and molecular detection techniques.
• Summary of recent advancements in aptasensors, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), and Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS).

Main Results:

• Established methods provide baseline Salmonella detection capabilities.
• Emerging technologies show promise for enhanced sensitivity and speed.

Conclusions:

• Accurate and timely Salmonella detection is critical for food safety.
• Novel technologies like aptasensors and SPR offer potential improvements in pathogen surveillance.