Detection of Food Borne Pathogens: From DNA Arrays to Whole Genome Sequencing and Metagenomics

Detecting foodborne pathogens as quickly and reliably as possible is a matter of public safety. In the last three decades, the field of food microbiology has evolved with increasing speed, thanks to technological advancements and to the ever-increasing number of genome sequences available for many of the pathogens involved. In this chapter, we report the main applications involving the use of DNA microarrays, biosensors, and high-throughput sequencing as tools in food pathogen detection. The chapter initially focuses on the most recent developments and experimental results of more traditional array technologies; then, new bio-molecular techniques, such as integrated platforms and biosensors for the miniaturized detection of pathogens, are discussed with the description of some interesting approaches and innovative applications, and, finally, a snapshot of the applications of metagenomics and whole genome sequencing is shown, suggesting new opportunities to improve food pathogens investigation.