Food Microbiology and Nutrition

Molecular Techniques in Food Microbiology

Molecular techniques have revolutionized food microbiology, enabling accurate detection, identification, and characterization of microorganisms throughout the food chain. Technologies such as PCR, qPCR, next-generation sequencing, whole-genome sequencing, metagenomics, and CRISPR-based diagnostics provide rapid and highly sensitive tools for microbial analysis. These methods uncover previously unrecognized species, track contamination sources, and support epidemiological investigations of foodborne outbreaks. Molecular typing systems including MLST, PFGE, and WGS-based phylogenomics enhance understanding of pathogen evolution, virulence factors, and antimicrobial resistance profiles. Biosensors, microfluidics, and lab-on-a-chip devices are enabling real-time monitoring of food safety parameters directly in processing environments. Integration of bioinformatics and AI allows researchers to interpret large datasets, assess spoilage risks, and predict microbial behavior under different conditions. These molecular advancements support preventive food safety strategies, improve quality assurance programs, and accelerate decision-making across regulatory and industrial sectors. As technologies continue to evolve, they will play an even larger role in shaping precision food microbiology and global food security.