New tech to detect food contamination more accurately

Scientists, including two Indian-origin researchers, have developed a new technique to detect food contamination more rapidly and accurately.
The technique was developed by researchers from University of Missouri led by Professor of Engineering Shubhra Gangopadhyay.
"Quickly stopping the spread of toxins saves lives, whether those toxins are from natural processes or enemy attacks," said lead author Sangho Bok, postdoctoral fellow in MU's College of Engineering.
"Our technique uses nanoparticles to make detection one hundred times more sensitive than the standard method now used, known as ELISA. We have also reduced the time needed to detect a threat to only one hour, compared to four to six hours for ELISA," Bok said.

Currently, Bok's testing method detects a toxin that causes food poisoning, a chemical known as Clostriudium botulinum neurotoxin A.
Engineers and biologists at MU now seek to adapt the test to detect many other dangerous chemicals.

"Science, employment and economic development are all tied together," said study co-author and MU research professor, Keshab Gangopadhyay.
"Food safety testing presents a large market that is growing quickly in developing nations like China and India," Gangopadhyay said.
The study was published in journal Biosensors and Bioelectronics.