Chapter 13 - Recent Advances in Molecular Techniques for the Diagnosis of Foodborne Diseases

Abstract

There is a large assortment of microbes that are capable of producing toxins that cause foodborne diseases. At present, foodborne infections are a widespread communal health problem and it is thus essential to identify foodborne pathogens for reducing foodborne diseases. Several conventional microbiological identification techniques are time-consuming and laborious. To overcome the food safety issues, several competent molecular methods are followed for the detection of foodborne pathogens based on their selectivity, sensitivity, rapidity, and appropriateness to in situ investigation. In the recent times, a variety of identification and characterization methods have been developed, such as biosensor-based method, immunological techniques, and nucleic acid–based tools using PCR amplification for the diagnosis of foodborne diseases. Molecular methods are becoming essential in medical practice. This chapter deals with the basic principles, distinctiveness, and applications of current molecular identification methods for foodborne pathogens.