Nanomaterials for designing biosensors to detect fungi and bacteria related to food safety of agricultural products

The agricultural and food sectors are currently focused on developing and implementing control technologies but have not been able to detect postharvest fungi and food-borne bacteria in a fast and reliable manner; thus, necessary measures must be taken as soon as possible. To facilitate this process, a device such as a biosensor could be a potential alternative for the timely detection of various postharvest pathogenic microorganisms. Biosensors are composed of a recognition element, a transductor, a compartment for data analysis, and an indicator to visualize the signal. The biological recognition element can include enzymes and aptamers. To date, a great number of nanomaterials have been produced with the potential to be transducing elements due to their enhanced electrical conductivity, thermal, and optical properties. These include nanocarbons, nanometals, nanomagnetics, and nanosemiconductors. Furthermore, new approaches to lessen the use of toxic materials during the synthesis of nanoparticles have been considered, including biological resources such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and plants. However, the portable device must still overcome several hurdles, such as sample preparation, energy needs, and training.