Overview of scholarly research/creative activity: The Food Protection Lab addresses challenges in the fields of food fraud and food microbiology. We develop and apply rapid methods, such as DNA barcoding and real-time PCR, for the detection of food mislabeling. and food pathogens. We also develop and optimize laboratory techniques for the identification of food pathogens.
Specific projects working on: 1. Single-Laboratory Validation for the Detection of Salmonella in Meat Analog Products
2. A Meta-Analysis of Seafood Mislabeling in the United States
3. Use of DNA-based Methods for the Identification of Canned Tuna Species
4. Use of Molecular Methods to Authenticate Ginseng Species in Dietary Supplements
5. Disinfection of Foodborne Pathogens using the Contamination Sanitization Inspection and Disinfection (CSI-D) system
Number of students looking to work with: 1-2
When students are needed: Spring 2024 Summer 2024
What students need to work with Dr. Hellberg: Completed first year science laboratory classes
What students would be doing: Lab experiments, study design, literature research, data analysis
Time commitment for students: 5-10 hours/week, Meetings once per week
