Purpose: The study compares this alternative method to the ISO 6579 Reference method for the detection of Salmonella spp. in food and environmental samples.
Methods: Two protocols have been developed for same day and next day detection. For each of five food categories, 60 samples of 25 g were tested by both methods. For larger sample size (raw meat, produce), 60 samples were also tested by both methods. This new method consists of a single enrichment in BPW incubated 8 to 24 h (depending on food) at 42°C. Then, DNA is extracted using mechanical lysis in a dedicated lysis tube: 15 µl are introduced through a cap that does not require any tube or cap handling. Extracted DNA is used directly with freeze dried PCR reagents. The PCR method is based on dual probe detection (Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer) allowing real time detection and melting curve analysis. The call is positive when it combines an amplification curve and a melting peak allowing a strong specificity of the test.
Results: Methods were compared following ISO16140 guidelines. The comparison did not show any statistical difference on the 360 samples tested.
Significance: GENE-UP® Salmonella method enables a reliable and rapid detection of Salmonella spp. in food and environmental samples: 8 to 24 h enrichment depending of food category and size, including a user-friendly workflow.