ResourceFood and Beverage
PCR adoption and workflow considerations in food safety testing: A guide to automated versus manual PCR approaches for labs
19 Aug 2025This guide explores the advantages and considerations of manual versus automated PCR workflows for food safety testing laboratories. With foodborne pathogens like Salmonella posing major risks to public health and industry, PCR has become the preferred molecular method for rapid, accurate, and scalable pathogen detection. The resource compares efficiency, reproducibility, costs, scalability, and regulatory compliance between manual and automated PCR approaches, helping labs choose the best solution for their testing needs.
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PCR and Thermal CyclingPolymerase chain reaction (PCR) kits and thermal cyclers are used for the in vitro amplification of DNA permitting subsequent analysis and experimental procedures. Explore a range of high-quality polymerase, primers and nucleotides or simplify your workflow with a PCR mastermix. Find reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and cDNA synthesis kits for RNA products and libraries. Quantitatively measure the amplification of DNA with real-time PCR (qPCR) and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) kits and systems, and discover automated PCR setup solutions to increase throughput. Alternative DNA amplification methods also include recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) kits. Find the best PCR kits and thermal cyclers and purification equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Pathogen DetectionPathogen detection is the process of identifying harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, that can cause diseases. Accurate pathogen detection is critical for food safety, public health, and clinical diagnostics. Explore pathogen detection products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Food SafetyFood safety describes the prevention of food-borne illnesses. Contamination with a variety of pathogens can be prevented with adequate temperature control, hygiene and labeling. Food samples can be tested using GC/MS, HPLC, SPE, and qPCR to ensure their adherence to regulations.Food MicrobiologyMolecular DiagnosticsMolecular diagnostics use an individual’s genetic code and gene expression to diagnose and monitor diseases. The technique is used increasingly in the field of infectious diseases and oncology, as well as areas such as coagulation, HLA typing and pharmacogenomics. Molecular diagnostics plays a pivotal role in personalized medicine.Food TestingFood testing refers to a variety experiments including PCR, mass spectrometry, processing, QuEChERS, analyzing and Kjeldahl.