Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (1+1)

6.5.4.1. Biosensors in food analysis

There are several applications of biosensors in food analysis.

· In food industry optic coated with antibodies are commonly used to detect pathogens and food toxins.

· The light system in these biosensors has been fluorescence, since this type of optical measurement can greatly amplify the signal.

· A range of immuno- and ligand-binding assays for the detection and measurement of small molecules such as water-soluble vitamins and chemical contaminants ( drug residues ) such as sulfonamides and Beta-agonists have been developed, often adapted from existing ELISA or other immunological assay. These are in widespread use across the food industry.