 | This article needs additional citations for verification .(February 2023) |
PCR food testing is the engagement of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technologies for the testing of food for the presence or absence of human pathogens, such as E. coli, Salmonella , Listeria , [1] etc. [2]
Four sample collection sites for PCR food testing can be:
- The food irrigation water.
- The food wash water.
- Environmental samples collected in the food processing facility.
- The finished food product, whether fresh or processed.
Each of these sample types can be collected, prepared, and PCR tested within a short time for many sample types. Some sample types may require sample enrichment via shortened culture growth periods prior to PCR testing. [3]
