Microfluidics-integrated biosensing platforms as emergency tools for on-site field detection of foodborne pathogens

Abstract

Early stage detection of pathogen in food matrices represents a central issue for public health and environment protection. New technologies using microfluidic platforms with disposable or reusable biosensors have emerged, aiming to match Affordable, Sensitive, Specific, User-friendly, Rapid and Robust, Equipment free, Deliverable to end users (ASSURED) criteria. Herein we have summarized the latest significant papers dedicated to microfluidics-integrated biosensors that are currently in use (or at least are amenable) for the on-site field detection of the most common foodborne pathogens. Microsystems containing surface plasmon resonance (SPR), surface acoustic wave (SAW), surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy-based sensors, electrochemical- and paper devices (lateral flow test strips and electrodes), along with the most used capturing elements will be critically discussed, assessing the feasibility of their implementation in portable “sample-to-answer” devices.