Progress in separation and detection of foodborne bacteria for food safety

Early screening of foodborne pathogenic bacteria is crucial for the prevention of food poisoning. Traditional detection methods are often faced with the challenge of low concentrations of pathogenic bacteria in a complex matrix of food samples at their routine screening. To overcome this issue, specific separation of target bacteria from large-volume samples is a promising strategy, and it has become an essential precondition for the ultrasensitive detection of bacteria. Thus, new advanced magnetic separators for specific and efficient enrichment of target bacteria and new cutting-edge biosensors for rapid and sensitive detection of target bacteria were reviewed. Besides, important considerations and new information technologies for biosensor development in practical application scenarios were also analyzed. The review might provide innovative insights and systematic strategies for routine screening of foodborne pathogens to ensure food safety.