Optimization of Sample Preparation for Detection of Common Food-borne Pathogens by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry

摘要

Sample preparation method using 25% formic acid with acetonitrile is simple and has high accuracy and reproducibility for the seven bacteria tested. However, it is noted that identification rate of certain microorganisms are dependent on the sample preparation method used. Therefore, future studies should include more species of bacteria to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of this method. A simple and accurate sample preparation method coupled with MALDI-ToF can provide food safety laboratories with the identities of the various microorganisms in the food within a day to two. Furthermore, the overall benefit of an optimized and flexible protocol could potentially transform food safety testing in future.