Purpose: The purpose of the study was to verify performance of the Salmonella Multiplex assay when poultry, pork, and environmental surface samples were co-inoculated with low levels of two Salmonella serovars S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium or Salmonella Kentucky. Presumptive results were compared to those obtained with the multiplex assay’s culture confirmation and the USDA FSIS Salmonella reference method.
Methods: Ten poultry, pork, and surface swab samples were co-inoculated with low levels of two Salmonella serovars to achieve fractionally positive results in accordance with AOAC guidelines. All samples analyzed with the Salmonella Multiplex Kit were enriched in Buffered Peptone Water (ISO formulation) + 12mg/L Novobiocin at 41.5oC for 14-16 hours, lysed, tested, and analyzed according to the protocol described in the instructions for use. Presumptive positive results were confirmed using culture and serological confirmation methods. The reference method was performed according to the USDA FSIS guidelines.
Results: The Salmonella Multiplex assay method proved to be an accurate method even when samples were contaminated with multiple Salmonella serovars. The assay was 100% sensitive and 100% specific versus culture and serological confirmation. Detection of two serovars from a single sample was possible from poultry, pork, and surface swabs.
Significance: The study demonstrated that the RapidFinder™ Salmonella Multiplex assay is a rapid, easy-to-use, and reliable workflow for the detection of Salmonella spp., S. Enteritidis, and S. Typhimurium in poultry, pork, and environmental surface samples.