ABSTRACT
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms have revolutionized several areas of biology, promoting studies on the genetic content of numerous organisms. One example of areas that has started using these platforms is food science, and the use of these technologies has contributed to the prevention, understanding, and control of numerous problems. With an increasing amount of data and decreasing cost, these platforms have been widely used in various types of analysis. This chapter presents a brief discussion about sequencing and genetics, and how NGS sequencing platforms have contributed to advances in food safety and quality. Subsequently, the current sequencing techniques are presented, and how they relate to bioinformatics (a multidisciplinary area that intersects with other areas of knowledge such as computing, engineering, biology, statistics, and others), an important ally in this process. In the last few years, the development of computational tools by bioinformatics has facilitated researchers to carry out detailed analyses, contributing to studies that aim to guarantee food safety and quality, for example, detailing and accurately identifying microbiological risks in food. This entire range of information is stored in various databases, responsible for assisting in the discovery and analysis of sequences present in the composition of foods. Finally, new gaps, bioinformatics pipelines, and perspectives for future studies on the theme are exposed.
