USDA Adopts DuPont BAX System for E. coli Detection

WILMINGTON, Del.Recent updates by USDAs Food Safety & Inspection Service (FSIS) to its Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook (MLG) now specify the DuPont BAX® System molecular method for detecting E. coli O157:H7 and non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) in meat products, carcass and environmental sponges.

Effective Oct. 1, 2013, FSIS microbiologists can use BAX System real-time assays to routinely monitor regulated foods for pathogenic E. coli. The MLG already specifies the BAX System method for detecting Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. While inclusion does not constitute endorsement, the methods contained in the MLG are those that the FSIS uses for analysis of meat, poultry and other products within their jurisdiction.

The BAX System is used to detect pathogens or other organisms in raw ingredients, finished products and environmental samples. The automated system uses leading-edge technology, including PCR assays, tableted reagents and optimized media to detect Salmonella, Listeria species, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli O157:H7 and STEC, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio and yeast and mold. Many of these tests have been certified by AOAC and AFNOR and/or approved by government agencies in the Americas, Asia and Europe.