Paper-Based Biosensor Detects Fecal Contamination on Fresh Produce Farms

Scientists from Purdue University developed a biosensor that can detect fecal contamination on fresh produce farms. Their innovation aims to promote food safety in the agricultural industry.

Farms that have nearby wildlife or animal operations are at risk of acquiring pathogens on their crops. When the plants are tested positive for pathogens, they are quickly discarded to ensure food safety. However, it is difficult to detect pathogens in trace amounts while adhering to regulatory requirements.

To address this issue, the researchers produced a paper-based loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) that can detect Bacteroidales, a fecal indicator, in farms. The low-cost technology is portable, easy to use, accurate, and provides sensitive results within an hour. Their findings may be used for further research and development of diagnostic tools for various agricultural applications.

For more information, read the article in Biosensors and Bioelectronics.