A comprehensive review of detection methods for Escherichia coli O157:H7

As a notorious foodborne pathogen, Escherichia coli O157:H7 ( E. coli O157:H7) poses a major threat to human health, public safety and economic property all around the globe, early detection is essential. In recent years, a series of novel detection strategies for the rapid, specific and sensitive detection of E. coli O157:H7 have been developed, but a systematic and comprehensive overview of purely from the perspective of detection methods is still absent. Therefore, this review summarized recent progress in optical, electrochemical and other detection methods for E. coli O157:H7, described each method's principles, merits and demerits, and discussed technological innovations and novel nanomaterials in relation to how to improve detection ability. In addition, we provide valuable and unique insights into important issues and future prospects in this field, and are confident that the detailed overview will serve as a significant reference for researchers dedicated to foodborne pathogenic detection. • Optical, electrochemical and other detection methods for Escherichia coli O157:H7 were discussed. • The principles, merits and demerits of each detection method were highlighted. • Rapidity, sensitivity and specificity of Escherichia coli O157:H7 assays were discoursed. • The challenges and future perspectives for Escherichia coli O157:H7 detection methods were elaborated.