Rapid detection of bacteria by biochips during food processing.

According to EU hygiene guidelines, the control of microbiological criteria has to be tested throughout the whole process of food manufacturing. While classical microbiological methods are less suitable for routine purposes, biosensors integrated in lab-on-a-chip systems could help to improve the situation in future. Therefore, the applicability of biosensors was tested for the detection of bacteria in food by means of direct and specific electrochemical detection of microbial 16S ribosomal RNA. E. coli and meat matrix was used in this study. An analysis procedure was developed including a short pre-enrichment step followed by an optimised RNA isolation and biochip measurement that enabled E. coli detection of at least 1 cfu/ml sample within 7 hours. This diagnostic method is well suited for an application in monitoring food processing procedures.