Molekularbiologische Methoden in der Lebensmittelanalytik

Abstract

Recombinant DNA methods have been rareley used for the analysis of food samples. Since the introduction of the polymerase chain reaction in 1985, DNA analysis of food samples has become a practicable approach. This technique is capable of producing an exponential enrichment of a specific DNA sequence, greatly facilitating subsequent analytical procedures. Detection of infectious agents, identification of irradiated food, and determination of identity and contaminations are potential applications in food analysis. We develop PCR protocols for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli in food and clinical samples. The detection of wheat contamination in glutenfree products, which are intended for coeliac patients is another application currently under investigation.