Due to increased food safety concerns for consumer health, food safety inspection and biosafety study of food sources has become a global focal point in consumer health research. The studies include detection and labeling of GMOs in food and feed, as well as detection of food pathogens, allergens, pesticide residues, heavy metals, and environmental hormones.   

In our lab we have been focusing on developing food safety detection techniques for the following agents:GMOs in food and feed; pesticide and veterinary drug residues; food pathogens and allergens. The developed methods utilize techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), molecular imprinting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and biosensors.

GMO detection in food and feed：

Using protein based or nucleic acid based techniques, including ELISA, qualitative PCR and real-time quantitative PCR, we have developed detection methods for many GM events in our lab.

Food pathogen detection：

To develop fast and effective detection methods for food pathogens, we have been using multiplex-PCR, real-time quantitative PCR, and Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) in the research.

Pesticide residue detection ：

Using molecular engineering and protein engineering, we have obtained recombinant AChE enzyme protein. Products using the recombinant AChE enzyme protein for phosphorous and carbamate pesticide detection in agricultural products have been developed and applied. 

Veterinary drug residue detection:

Using molecular imprinting and monoclonal antibody, we have developed detection methods for major hormonal and antibiotic veterinary drug residues by targeting specific molecular imprinting polymers. These detection methods include ELISA kits and test strips which have been commercialized and utilized in routine food safety inspections.