AOAC-RI validated E. coli O157:H7 test

Idaho Technology (ITI) has been granted Performance Tested Methods Status by the AOAC Research Institute (Certificate No 100901) for its E. coli O157:H7 test used with the RAPID LT Food Security System (FSS). The assay uses real-time PCR technology to identify the presence of E. coli O157:H7 in raw ground beef and uncooked spinach food samples.

The system enables detection of E. coli O157:H7 in less than one hour after only eight hours of enrichment. This test provides easy, accurate and timely pathogen identification to enhance food companies’ productivity. The use of an E. coli O157:H7 screening tool that is both rapid and accurate will permit earlier release of products without fear of potential outbreaks or possible food recalls. The assay is intended for use by trained laboratory personnel.

Built upon LightCycler technology, the RAPID LT FSS combines rapid air thermocycling and a real-time fluorimeter to reliably identify food and environmental samples. In addition to the instrument, robust freeze-dried reagents have been designed and optimised to run on this instrument and provide precise results. Because of its sensitivity, accuracy and high speed, it is suitable for rapid foodborne pathogen identification and represents an improvement over traditional microbiology tests that currently require 5-7 days.