Emerging Microbiological and Sensor-Based Approaches for Biofilm Detection in Meat and Poultry Processing Environments

Biofilms remain a major challenge in meat and poultry processing because conventional sanitation verification methods provide only indirect evidence of attached microbial communities. Emerging microbiological and sensor-based technologies offer new opportunities to improve biofilm detection by providing information on biofilm structure, cellular membrane integrity, composition, and spatial distribution. This review evaluates advanced imaging techniques, molecular assays, extracellular polymeric substance (EPS)-focused analyses, and real-time sensor platforms for their potential to strengthen risk-based biofilm monitoring in meat and poultry processing environments. Confocal and epifluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, optical coherence tomography, and in situ fluorescence imaging provide detailed visualization of biofilm architecture and viability, supporting validation of routine monitoring methods and assessment of sanitation practices. Quantitative PCR, digital PCR, amplicon sequencing, and metagenomics characterize biofilm communities, identify persistent microorganisms, and evaluate sanitation effectiveness, while EPS analyses of polysaccharides, proteins, extracellular DNA, and lipids indicate biofilm maturity and resilience. Electrochemical impedance, quartz crystal microbalance, surface acoustic wave sensors, and microfluidic platforms show promise for near-real-time detection of attached biomass. Collectively, these technologies provide a framework for more targeted, data-driven biofilm surveillance that can improve sanitation verification and reduce pathogen persistence in meat and poultry processing facilities.