Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate detection and Genogroup differentiation of artificially contaminated shellfish samples by the foodproof Norovirus Detection Kit (GI, GII, GIV).
Methods: RNA of four shellfish samples (pacific oysters and common mussels) and two Lenticules Discs provided by the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) as part of the proficiency test 55 (2015) was prepared by the foodproof Virus Sample Preparation Kit. Norovirus detection and genotype identification was performed with the foodproof Norovirus Detection Kit (GI, GII, GIV), a one-step real-time reverse transcriptase-PCR for the multiplex detection of the norovirus genotype I, II, and IV. The assay includes an inhibition/ process control, containing the MS2 bacteriophage.
Results: There were no differences in the detection of norovirus GI and GII in three spiked shellfish samples and two Lenticules Discs. In shellfish sample 4, no GII could be detected but GI, due to inhomogeneities in the sample materials as well as the spiked virus concentrations below the LOD of the Detection Kit. Highest accuracy was achieved with the artificial spiked shellfish samples of the CEFAS proficiency test 55.
Significance: The foodproof Norovirus Detection Kit shows a high sensitivity in shellfish samples contaminated with norovirus GI and GII with small quantities, and is based on primers, probes, and methods which are mentioned in the ISO/TS 15216. The kit is not limited to seafood but works with minced meat, fruits, and water samples.