Abstract
The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay technologies evolved from a black box reaction with endpoint detection of the PCR products using gel electrophoresis to a quantitative PCR reaction with real-time detection of the products using fluorescent dyes. Current challenges are sample preparation, appropriate PCR controls, and interpretation of positive results. PCR systems with a validation certificate are available, with most having a convenient format and user-friendly software, thus facilitating their implementation in diagnostic and public health laboratories. Application of PCR in food microbiology is continuously broadened, for example in the detection of toxins, enumeration of bacterial and viral pathogens, characterization and typing of isolates, and measurement of gene expression.