The DuPont BAX System has been certified by the AOAC Research Institute as a Performance Tested MethodSM (PTM) for detecting Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC) in beef trim and ground beef.

“With this certification, our entire portfolio of BAX System assays for three important foodborne pathogens – E coli, Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes – has been validated by AOAC, “ said Doris Engesser-Sudlow, global director for molecular diagnostics, DuPont Nutrition & Health. “This means that food companies can use one molecular-based platform for those pathogen testing needs, with confidence in accurate results that are certified as reliable and reproducible.”

The AOAC Research Institute, a subsidiary of AOAC International in Gaithersburg, Md., validated the BAX System method as equivalent to the reference culture method for detecting STEC, but with much faster time to results. BAX System assays for detecting E. coli O157:H7, Listeria spp, and many other pathogens are already PTM-certified. Beyond that, AOAC International has awarded Official Method of Analysis (OMA) status to the BAX System for detecting for Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes.

The BAX System suite of STEC assays, based on real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology, was developed in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Services of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA ARS) and was recently included, along with the BAX System real-time PCR assay for E. coli O157:H7, in the Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook of the Food Safety & Inspection Service (USDA FSIS).

Food processing companies around the world rely on the BAX System to detect pathogens or other organisms in raw ingredients, finished products and environmental samples. The automated system uses leading-edge technology, including PCR assays, tableted reagents and optimized media to detect Salmonella, Listeria species, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli O157:H7 and STEC, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio, and yeast and mold. Many of these tests have been certified by AOAC and AFNOR and/or approved by government agencies in the Americas, Asia and Europe. For more information about the BAX System, one of the most advanced pathogen detection systems available to food companies, please visit www.fooddiagnostics.dupont.com.

DuPont Nutrition & Health addresses the world’s challenges in food by offering a wide range of sustainable, bio-based ingredients and advanced molecular diagnostic solutions to provide safer, healthier and more nutritious food. Through close collaboration with customers, DuPont combines knowledge and experience with a passion for innovation to deliver unparalleled customer value to the marketplace. More information is available at www.food.dupont.com..

DuPont has been bringing world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the form of innovative products, materials, and services since 1802. The company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs, and thought leaders we can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment. For additional information about DuPont and its commitment to inclusive innovation, please visit www.dupont.com.