The next-generation test combines shorter, simpler sample preparation and faster real-time processing, said the firm.
The assay is a method for detecting the pathogen in products and has been validated on frankfurters, cooked shrimp, spinach, queso fresco and environmental surfaces.
It allows customers to test for L. monocytogenes, Listeria spp. and Salmonella in the same batch, with results for all organisms in a little over an hour.
Reduced processing time
Nicolette Blubaugh, DuPont Nutrition & Health said the main benefit for the customer is the reduced processing time, from three and a half hours to 70 minutes.
“The “next generation” denotes real-time PCR technology vs. end-point detection, which has previously been used on all of our L. monocytogenes assays,” she told FoodQualityNews.com.
“One of our main goals is to reduce the overall time to results, including shorter enrichment times, shorter preparation and shorter processing.”
Blubaugh said minimum enrichment times are 24 to 28 hours, depending on sample type, sample prep is about 50 minutes and sample processing takes 70 minutes.
“Customers are asking for a faster time-to-result, particularly during the enrichment process, which typically takes about 48 hours for standard reference methods.
“Listeria is a slower growing organism so customers are interested in finding new ways to enrich the organism to detectable levels, faster.”
AOAC validation submission
DuPont said it was in the process of completing the studies for AOAC validation and expect to submit the report for approval in the next few weeks.
The assay completes the BAX System portfolio of real-time PCR assays for common US pathogens.
DuPont Nutrition & Health can provide testing for Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7, non-O157 STEC, Genus Listeria, L. monocytogenes, Campylobacter and more on the platform.
Rob McPheeters, diagnostics leader, DuPont Nutrition & Health, said Listeria monocytogenes is an important cause of human foodborne illness, particularly for persons with heightened susceptibility.
“With this new real-time PCR assay, we are reconfirming our commitment to helping food producers and manufacturers detect this pathogen with speed, accuracy and reliability to provide the best value in science-based solutions.”