Abstract: In this work, we report on a biomimetic sensor platform that allows sensitive, on-site detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) with a limit of detection of 30 cells/mL in both buffer suspension and rinsing water from an industrial food-preparation machine. Ultrathin surface-imprinted polymers are combined with non-faradaic impedance spectroscopy to measure the increase in resistance at the solid to liquid interface due to the binding of target cells by the receptor layer. The detection limit reached with this sensing principle was determined using an established, commercial impedance spectrometer and a low-cost, home-built impedance unit. Cross-selectivity tests, with both an unrelated bacterial species and four species belonging to the same Enterobacteriales order, show that the response is strongest for the target bacterium while only a small cross-selectivity signal (&8776; 10 - 25 %) is visible for all other types of bacteria. Therefore, this sensor is not only fast and low-cost, but also sensitive and selective. Sample preparation is minimal, which is an asset for on-site bacterial detection in a food industry context.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
Author keywords: biomimetic sensors, E.coli, food quality monitoring, Surface-imprinted polymers, Impedance spectroscopy