New portable technologies enable rapid on-site pathogen detection

New biotechnological developments are enhancing the speed and efficiency of pathogen detection in agricultural and food sectors.

In Chile, the SEK Interdisciplinary Institute for Biomedical Sciences, in collaboration with the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) and the Foundation for Agricultural Innovation (FIA), has developed a LAMP-PCR kit. This portable tool allows for the on-site detection of eleven significant pathogens affecting honeybees, including American Loque, European Loque, and Acarapisosis. By enabling early detection directly at the hives, the technology aims to prevent disease spread, protect bee populations, and reduce the need to transport samples to centralized laboratories.

In Spain, the technology center Tekniker, working with Erreka Medical and Gaiker, has developed a new generation of portable biosensors. These systems integrate genetic amplification with electrochemical sensors on disposable microfluidic chips. The technology is designed to detect microorganisms, such as Listeria monocytogenes in dairy products, directly at the point of risk. Validated with real samples from the agri-food sector and water infrastructures, the system can provide results in less than 30 minutes, significantly reducing the time required compared to conventional laboratory analysis.