Thermo Scientific Salmonella Precis Method

A quick and easy culture-based method for the enrichment, detection and confirmation of Salmonella species has been validated for a broad range of food, animal feed and environmental samples. Extension of the validation scope for the Thermo Scientific Salmonella Precis Method according to ISO 16140-2 brings the opportunity for increased efficiency by eliminating the need for multiple broths, plates, supplementation and incubation temperatures.

Historically, more rapid Salmonella testing methods have required specialised enrichment broths and supplements, and incubation temperatures have differed from those for other forms of bacterial screening. This, combined with the difficulties of testing larger samples of substances like chocolate, infant formula and animal feed, have presented laboratories with an efficiency challenge.

The extended validation scope for the Salmonella Precis Method means laboratories can run multiple Salmonella testing methods, including PCR, using the same enrichment procedure. When compared to the ISO reference method it cuts the number of broths needed from three to one; cuts the number of plates from two to one; and uses a single, widely available culture-medium supplement. It slots seamlessly into standard working practices to provide flexibility and efficiency.

The method uses a single, overnight enrichment step for fast time to result; uses liquid supplementation for high throughput; and is effective between 34 and 38°C, reducing the need for alternative-temperature incubators. By incorporating Buffered Peptone Water as the enrichment medium, laboratories should be able to reduce handling and increase workflow efficiency. The same sample preparation can be used for other procedures such as quality indicator enumeration and detection of other bacterial targets that also use BPW for enrichment.

The method has been validated for a broad range of food matrices, including challenging samples such as cocoa and chocolate (up to 375 g), infant formula (with and without probiotics), infant cereals and related ingredients (up to 375 g) and animal feed (up to 150 g). Confirmation is available in 2 min using the Thermo Scientific Salmonella Latex Test, meaning laboratories can act quickly and decisively on behalf of their clients.