Advancements in nucleic acid–based enumeration methods for viable foodborne pathogenic bacteria

Foodborne diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria present a significant public health concern. The efficient and accurate identification and quantification of viable bacteria is crucial for preventing and mitigating disease outbreaks. This review summarizes the current status and recent advancements in enumeration methods for viable foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Special emphasis is placed on nucleic acid–based quantitative detection methods, including direct RNA-based detection and preprocessed DNA detection. The quantitative detection methods for viable bacteria are advancing to become more rapid, sensitive, robust, and automated. Nucleic acid–based enumeration methods may be the foundation of the next-generation quantitative microbiological risk analysis and play a pivotal role in the field of food safety.