Purpose: This study was conducted to evaluate the performance of the new 3M™ Molecular Detection System for implementation in routine testing of ready-to-eat foods. The novel method combines isothermal DNA amplification and bioluminescence detection as an alternative detection method for pathogens.
Methods: A total of 78 ready to eat food samples were artificially inoculated with strains of S. enteritidis, L. monocytogenes or E.coli O157 and 32 non contaminated samples were used as negative controls. All samples were enriched and incubated as follows: 18-24hours at 37°C for Salmonella spp, 40-48hours at 37°C for Listeria spp and 18-24 hours at 41.5°C for E. coli O157. All samples including negative controls were analyzed using the new detection system. Negative controls were confirmed by traditional methodology.
Results: All contaminated samples were detected by the new detection system as positive in less time than traditional methods. A matrix control reagent was used to verify inhibition of the amplification resulting in valid results. Non contaminated samples were detected as negative with the system and the absence of the pathogen was confirmed by traditional microbiology.
Significance: The new detection system was not only a suitable but also practical and sensitive method to detect the absence and/or presence of pathogens in a variety of RTE products when compared to traditional methods in a much shorter time.