Integrating fluorescence microscopy and Generalized Additive Models to predict Escherichia coli colonization dynamics on lettuce leaves

In this study, we combined fluorescence microscopy with Generalized Additive Models (GAMs) to investigate the early colonization dynamics of Escherichia coli on lettuce leaves. By integrating high-resolution imaging with predictive modelling, we showed how leaf surface micro-morphology influences bacterial colonization and developed a quantitative framework that could support future strategies to improve the microbiological safety of fresh-cut produce.