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Classical procedures for the detection of microbial pathogens in meats are slow and labor intensive. Rapid methods currently available are either complex, require potentially hazardous and expensive materials, or utilize a pre-enrichment step of 18-24 hours to grow up enough cells for detection. This project will establish that biosensors employing immobilized antibodies specific for meat pathogens can be successfully utilized for biomonitoring of contamination in food products.
One approach will utilize fiber optics to analyze the optical excitation and emission properties of immobilized antibodies and attached pathogens on the surfaces of gold coated silicon. The second biosensor will continue to explore the potential of the Quartz Crystal Microbalance with reusable piezoelectric quartz crystals containing attached antibodies. The maximum response of these biosensors for determination of microbial cell concentrations of pathogens in meat products will be established. Consumer demand for fresh, less processed food, such as meat, makes the need to ensure microbial safety of products very clear. This project provides the opportunity for a multidisciplinary effort to create specific biosensors for rapid and early detection of pathogen contamination in meat. These devices have the potential for specifically selecting food pathogens from among the total microbial load within minutes and measuring the concentration as real-time analysis on site. The capability for miniaturization and portability emphasizes the possibilities that this new technology will provide the tools for effective monitoring programs. The ability for rapid early detection of pathogens will enhance the safety and quality of U.S. meat products.