A new BAX System assay aimed at food processors and service labs who need a fast, accurate test for Listeria monocytogenes is to be launched by DuPont Nutrition & Health. The new test is said to combine shorter, simpler sample preparation and faster real-time processing, without sacrificing accuracy or reliability.
The DuPont BAX System Real-Time PCR Assay for L. monocytogenes is described as a quick and reliable method for detecting L. monocytogenes in a variety of products and has been validated on frankfurters, cooked shrimp, spinach, queso fresco and environmental surfaces. Furthermore, the assay provides additional flexibility by allowing customers to test for L. monocytogenes, Listeria spp. and Salmonella in the same batch, with results for all organisms in a little over an hour.
“Listeria monocytogenes is widely recognized as an important cause of human foodborne illness, particularly for persons with heightened susceptibility,” said Rob McPheeters, diagnostics leader, DuPont Nutrition & Health. “With this new real-time PCR assay, we are re-confirming our commitment to helping food producers and manufacturers detect this pathogen with speed, accuracy and reliability to provide the best value in science-based solutions.”
In addition, this new assay completes the BAX System portfolio of real-time PCR assays for the common U.S. pathogens, which are claimed to allow for superior specificity, shorter processing time and faster results. With this offering, DuPont Nutrition & Health can provide a complete testing solution for Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7, non-O157 STEC, Genus Listeria, L. monocytogenes, Campylobacter and more on a single, easy to use platform.
“Real-time PCR technology is a reliable and trusted method for rapid pathogen detection in food,” said Shannon Bullard, diagnostics global product manager, DuPont Nutrition & Health. “We are proud to offer a complete real-time testing solution for all the common pathogen testing needs with the DuPont BAX System, including the accuracy, reliability and support you expect from DuPont.”
According to DuPont, food processing companies around the world rely on the BAX System to detect pathogens or other organisms in raw ingredients, finished products and environmental samples. The automated system uses PCR assays with tableted reagents and optimised media, to detect Salmonella, Listeria species, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli O157:H7 and STEC, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio, and yeast and mould. Many of these tests have been certified by AOAC and AFNOR and/or approved by government agencies in the Americas, Asia and Europe.
