Rapid and reliable food analyses are necessary if we are to screen for microbes and other contaminants that could create major risks to health such as pesticides, bacteria, and other toxins. The study and quantification of contaminants have benefitted from major advances in analytical methods and instruments such as chromatography. However, high cost, extended processing cycles, costly and laborious sample preparation, and the need for highly qualified staff limit these conventional technologies. There is therefore demand for viable solutions to existing emerging technologies such as biosensors. In this chapter, we will discuss emerging biosensor technologies such as electrochemical, optical, and mechanical biosensors for food applications with some recent work. These biosensors have been helpful in addressing food industry challenges. In addition to the potential food applications of these biosensors, we also discuss some of the main industrial challenges and future prospects that will bring benefits to the food industry.
