Conductometric biosensors for high throughput screening of pathogens in food

The food processing industry is of global economic importance. The consequences of microbial spoilage pose a risk to consumers' health, cause severe economic losses, and lack of trust in the world's food supply. Sensors have been identified as one method of delivering an online solution to microbial monitoring and detection. Conductometric sensors have not gained a significant share of the sensor market. The application of conductometric sensors has been widespread, in particular as gas sensors and for determining the quality of engine oil. Their application in microbial detection in food however, has been limited. This chapter outlines developments and the applications of conductometric sensors in general and in specific microbial detection applications.