Researchers have developed a novel portable device that can perform chemical tests on food samples to detect harmful bacteria, an advance that may lead to quicker ways of preventing foodborne epidemics.

The device, described in the journal Applied Optics, performs chemical assays that produce light, and works with smartphones and laptops to test food samples on-site for harmful E. Coli bacteria.

According to the researchers, including those from Purdue University in the US, the device uses low light from the assay to detect the presence of E. Coli.

They created an electrical circuit with a signal amplifier, and components that send the data to laptops and smartphones via Bluetooth technology.

"Our goal is to create technology and a process that allows for the cost-effective detection of the causes of foodborne illness using an easy, expedient, and efficient process," said Euiwon Bae, study co-author from Purdue University.

"This time frame allows for better integrated detection and quicker action to stop more people from getting sick," Bae said.

To test the device, the researchers artificially contaminated ground beef with E. Coli, and then used their device to analyse the sample within 10 hours of inoculation.

They rinsed and incubated the beef with an enrichment liquid containing a modified phage -- a virus that infects bacteria.

As the phage infected the E. Coli, they added a chemical, which caused the bacteria to emit light.

The device then detected this light by counting the light pulses, or photons.

"Our assay offers higher sensitivity, lower cost, better portability and other distinct advantages when compared to existing detection methods," said Bruce Applegate from Purdue University.