Validation of the Reveal® 3-D for Gluten Assay for Detection of Gluten in Clean-in-Place Rinses and Stainless Steel Environmental Surfaces: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 122201

BACKGROUND

Reveal® 3-D for Gluten is an immunochromatographic assay for the qualitative detection of gluten in environmental samples. The test uses monoclonal antibodies reactive to prolamins in wheat.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to validate the Reveal 3-D test for detection of gluten in clean-in-place rinse and swabs from a stainless steel surface.

METHODS

Elements of the study included food selectivity and interference testing, matrix testing, an assay robustness study, and reagent stability/lot-to-lot consistency testing. Wheat flour was used as the spiking material for all matrixes.

RESULTS

In selectivity and interference testing, nine target matrixes all tested positive and 36 of 39 non-target matrixes tested negative. Almond flour, sesame flour, and cornstarch produced positive results as 100% commodities; reactivity can be eliminated with dilution or by testing without use of food extraction buffer, which is not a standard part of the environmental testing method. With a gluten spike at 9.3 mg/kg, chestnut flour, guar gum, and xanthan gum as 100% commodities inhibited the ability of the assay to detect gluten when tested without dilution. In quaternary ammonium clean-in-place rinse and swabs from stainless steel, 100% positive results were obtained at levels of 2.8 mg/kg and 4.7 µg/100 cm2, respectively. Results of independent laboratory testing of swabs from stainless steel supported those of internal trials. Robustness testing showed that introducing variations to three operating parameters simultaneously had no adverse effect on assay performance. In the reagent stability study, data supported kit expiration dating of 11 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the current study show that the Reveal test is an accurate and reliable method for qualitative detection of gluten in select clean-in-place rinse and environmental samples.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Reveal test was able to detect gluten at levels of 2.8 ppm in clean-in-place rinse and 4.7 µg/100 cm2 in swabs from stainless steel.

Validation of the Soleris® NF-TVC Method for Detection of Aerobic, Mesophilic Microorganisms in Dried Cannabis Flower: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 071203

Background

Soleris® Non-Fermenting Total Viable Count (NF-TVC) is a growth-based, automated method for semiquantitative detection of aerobic, mesophilic microorganisms in foods and other consumer products such as nutraceuticals and cosmetics. The method was granted AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM status for select foods after successful completion of a validation study.

Objective

The objective of the current study was to validate the Soleris NF-TVC method for use with dried cannabis flower [>0.3% delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)].

Methods

The validation consisted of a comparative matrix study in which naturally contaminated dried cannabis flower was tested with the Soleris NF-TVC method and with the AOAC Official Methods of AnalysisSM  966.23 dilution plating method. Multiple lots of dried cannabis flower were obtained, pre-screened for total aerobic, mesophilic viable count levels, and blended to produce test materials at four different levels of contamination ranging from 1.0 × 103 to 2.2 × 105 CFU/g. Each material was tested at three different Soleris detection threshold levels determined by the dilution used to inoculate the Soleris vials. Probability of detection analysis was performed to determine if differences in the number of positive results obtained with the two methods were significant.

Results

For all four dried cannabis flower materials, at all three Soleris test thresholds, there were no significant differences in performance comparing the Soleris and reference dilution plating methods as determined by probability of detection analysis at P < 0.05.

Conclusions

It is concluded that the Soleris NF-TVC method is an accurate and effective method for detection of aerobic, mesophilic microorganisms in dried cannabis flower.

Highlights

The Soleris NF-TVC method provides cannabis industry quality control personnel with an effective method for analysis of dried cannabis flower and produces results in 24–48 h.

Validation of the Soleris® Coliform Method for Detection of Coliform Bacteria in Dried Cannabis Flower: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 010302

Background

The Soleris® Coliform Vial is a growth-based, automated method for detection of coliform bacteria in foods and other consumer products such as nutraceuticals and cosmetics. The method was granted AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM certification for select foods after successful completion of a validation study.

Objective

The objective of the current study was to validate the Soleris coliform method for use with dried cannabis flower (>0.3% delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol).

Methods

A comparative matrix study was performed in which naturally contaminated dried cannabis flower was tested with the Soleris coliform method and with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual solid medium method. Multiple lots of dried cannabis flower were obtained, pre-screened for coliforms, and blended to produce test materials at four different contamination levels ranging from 4.5 to 1600 CFU/g. Each material was tested at three different Soleris detection threshold levels determined by the dilution used to inoculate the Soleris vials. Probability of detection analysis was performed to determine if differences in the number of positive results obtained with the two methods were significant.

Results

For all four dried cannabis flower materials, at all three Soleris test thresholds, there were no significant differences in the number of positive results obtained with the Soleris and cultural plating methods as determined by probability of detection analysis at P < 0.05.

Conclusion

The Soleris coliform test is an accurate method for detection of coliform bacteria in dried cannabis flower.

Highlights

The Soleris coliform method provides cannabis industry QC personnel with an effective method for analysis of dried cannabis flower and produces results in 18–24 h.

Validation of the Soleris®Enterobacteriaceae Method for Detection of Enterobacteriaceae in Dried Cannabis Flower: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 121901

Background

The Soleris®Enterobacteriaceae vial is a growth-based, automated method for detection of bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae in foods and other sample types including nutraceuticals and cosmetics. The Soleris method is used in a “dilute-to-specification” or threshold manner, in which a result is scored as positive or negative around a predetermined cutoff (in CFU/g) established by the dilution and volume of sample homogenate tested. The Soleris method was granted AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM (PTM) status for select foods after successful completion of a validation study (PTM 121901).

Objective

The objective of this study was to validate the method for the detection of Enterobacteriaceae in dried cannabis flower [>0.3% delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)].

Methods

The matrix study included comparison of Soleris method presumptive results to confirmation from the Soleris vials, and comparison of the Soleris confirmed results to those of the ISO 21528-2:2017 colony count method. Test materials at four different levels of contamination ranging from 7.8 to 3500 CFU/g were tested at three dilutions, corresponding to test thresholds.

Results

Probability of detection analysis at P < 0.05 showed there were no significant differences between Soleris presumptive and confirmed results, and no significant differences between Soleris confirmed and ISO 21528-2:2017 results.

Conclusion

The results provided evidence that the Soleris Enterobacteriaceae test is an accurate method for detection of Enterobacteriaceae in dried cannabis flower.

Highlights

The Soleris Enterobacteriaceae method provides cannabis industry QC personnel with an effective method for analysis of dried cannabis flower and produces results in 20–24 h.

Emergency Response Validation of the Soleris® Direct Yeast and Mold Method for Detection of Yeast and Mold in Dried Cannabis Flower: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 051301

BACKGROUND

Soleris® Direct Yeast and Mold is a growth-based, automated method for detection of yeast and mold in select foods and other sample types including nutraceuticals and cosmetics. The Soleris method is used in a "dilute-to-specification" or threshold manner in which a result is scored as positive or negative around a predetermined cutoff (in CFU/g) established by the dilution and volume of sample homogenate tested.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to validate the method for testing of dried cannabis flower. The validation was conducted under the Emergency Response Validation program of the AOAC Research Institute.

METHODS

The study included inclusivity and exclusivity testing, in particular testing of yeast and mold species associated with cannabis, and a matrix study in which Soleris method presumptive results were compared to Soleris confirmed results using Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol agar for confirmation. Samples at four different levels of natural yeast and mold contamination were tested at two test thresholds.

RESULTS

In inclusivity testing, all 63 yeast and mold strains tested produced positive results within the specified test duration of 72 h. In exclusivity testing, 36 of 37 strains tested produced no detection within 72 h. In matrix testing, there were no significant differences between Soleris presumptive and confirmed results for any contamination level or test threshold as determined by probability of detection analysis.

CONCLUSIONS AND HIGHLIGHTS

Results indicate that the Soleris method is an effective procedure for detection of yeast and mold in dried cannabis flower. Results are available within 72 h compared with the 5-7 days required for microbiological culture methods.

Validation of Modifications to the Soleris® E. coli Method for Detection and Threshold Determination of Escherichia coli in Select Foods: Level 3 Modification AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 101101

BACKGROUND

Soleris® E. coli is an automated, growth-based method for detection and semi-quantitative determination of Escherichia coli in foods. The method can be used in dilute-to-specification (threshold) or presence/absence modes.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to validate four modifications to the method: 1) a change in the vial detection window plug composition from agar to agarose to improve plug consistency and robustness, 2) a change in pre-enrichment incubation time for presence/absence testing from 6 h to 18-24 h, 3) a change in vial incubation temperature from 44.5 °C to 43.5 °C, and 4) incorporation of a simple direct-from-vial confirmation test as an alternative to traditional procedures.

METHODS

Elements of the study included inclusivity/exclusivity testing, matrix testing in comparison to the ISO 7251:2005 reference method, reagent stability/lot-to-lot consistency testing, and an independent laboratory study.

RESULTS

In inclusivity testing, all 55 E. coli strains tested produced positive results. In exclusivity testing, 30 of 31 strains of other bacterial species produced negative results, the sole exception being a strain of Enterobacter cloacae. In internal and independent laboratory matrix testing of mozzarella cheese, condensed milk, pasteurized liquid egg, and frozen green beans, results showed no significant differences in performance of the Soleris and reference methods with two exceptions, one in which the Soleris method produced more positive results, and one in which the reference method produced more positive results.

CONCLUSIONS AND HIGHLIGHTS

Performance characteristics of the modified Soleris E. coli method are consistent with those of the original validated method, while offering improvements in ease of use and reagent robustness.

Validation of the One Broth One Plate for Salmonella Method for Detection of Salmonella Spp. in Select Food and Environmental Samples: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 102002

Background

One Broth One Plate for Salmonella (OBOP Salmonella) is a rapid and simple method for detection of Salmonella spp. in food and environmental samples using traditional culture methodology. The method utilizes single-step enrichment followed by plating to a selective/differential, chromogenic agar.

Objective

The purpose of the validation study was to measure the effectiveness of the OBOP Salmonella method in comparison to reference culture procedures.

Method

Performance of the OBOP Salmonella method was compared to that of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual Chapter 5 reference method for queso fresco, smoked salmon, cantaloupe, chocolate, black pepper, chili powder, dry pet food, and sponge samples from a stainless steel surface, or to that of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook Chapter 4.10 method for raw ground turkey, chicken carcass rinse, and pasteurized liquid egg. Inclusivity/exclusivity, robustness, and stability/lot-to-lot consistency testing was also performed.

Results

In the matrix study, there were no statistically significant differences in performance between the OBOP Salmonella and reference methods, as determined by probability of detection analysis (P < 0.05), for any of the matrixes examined. All 104 Salmonella spp. strains produced positive results in inclusivity testing, and all 33 non-salmonellae exclusivity strains tested negative with the OBOP Salmonella method.

Conclusions

Results of the validation study show that the OBOP Salmonella method is a reliable procedure for detection of Salmonella spp. in select matrixes. The method is simple to perform, requires no specialized equipment, and produces results in as little as 37 h.

Highlights

The OBOP Salmonella method was awarded AOAC PTM^SM (#102002) for detection of Salmonella in queso fresco, smoked salmon, cantaloupe, chocolate, black pepper, chili powder, dry pet food, sponge samples on a stainless steel surface, raw ground turkey, chicken carcass rinse, and pasteurized liquid egg. The method is also approved by MicroVal^® for a broad range of foods under certification number 2019LR88.

Soleris®Enterobacteriaceae for the Detection of Enterobacteriaceae in Select Foods: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 121901

Background

Soleris^®Enterobacteriaceae is a growth-based, automated method for detection of Enterobacteriaceae in food.

Objective

A study was conducted to validate the Soleris method for detection of Enterobacteriaceae in select foods (pasteurized milk, yogurt, mozzarella cheese, ice cream, dried milk, pasteurized liquid egg, frozen cooked chicken, deli ham, lettuce, and dry dog food) at a threshold of ≥ 10 CFU/g of product.

Methods

Inclusivity and exclusivity of the Soleris method were assessed by testing 55 and 38 target and non-target bacterial strains, respectively. Matrix testing was performed with one naturally contaminated and nine inoculated foods. Efficacy of the Soleris method was compared to that of the ISO 21528-2:2017 direct plating reference method using probability of detection analysis. Independent laboratory testing was conducted to verify method performance in two matrixes (yogurt and deli ham). Method robustness, stability, and lot-to-lot consistency of the Soleris reagents were also assessed.

Results

Inclusivity of the Soleris test was 91% and exclusivity was 100%. In matrix testing, there were no significant differences in the number of positive results obtained with the Soleris and reference methods for any of the matrixes examined. Overall, of 370 test portions, there were 176 positive results by the Soleris method and 177 positive results by the reference procedure.

Conclusions

Soleris Enterobacteriaceae is an effective method for detection of Enterobacteriaceae in the foods evaluated, with performance equivalent to that of the ISO 21528-2:2017 reference method.

Highlights

The Soleris method offers the advantages of labor savings and results within 18 h.

Deoxyribonucleic Acid Hybridization Method for the Detection of Listeria in Dairy Products, Seafoods, and Meats: Collaborative Study

The method is based on the hybridization of synthetic deoxyribonucleic acid probes to ribosomal ribonucleic acid sequences unique to Listeria. This method was compared to 2 culture methods: the U.S. Food and Drug Administration method for the detection of Listeria in dairy products and sea-foods and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service method for Listeria in meats. Six food types with replicate samples containing various concentrations of Listeria were analyzed by the collaborating laboratories. Listeria was detected in 774 samples using the DNAH method and in 772 samples using a culture method. The DNAH and culture methods were in agreement for 668 samples containing Listeria and 306 samples without Listeria. The overall rate of agreement between methods was 82.3%. The method has been adopted first action by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.

A Portable Chemiluminescence Assay of Alkaline Phosphatase Activity To Monitor Pasteurization of Milk Products

A chemiluminescence assay using a handheld luminometer to measure the activity of alkaline phosphatase was developed that can detect 0.002% or more of unpasteurized milk in various milk products. Evaluation of the assay followed an National Conference on Interstate Milk Shipments (NCIMS)-approved protocol in which aliquots of pasteurized milk products were spiked with raw milk at various levels. Milk products evaluated included skim white milk, 1 and 2% fat content white milk, whole white milk, strawberry-flavored 1% fat content milk, chocolate-flavored 1% fat content milk, half-and-half, and heavy cream. Split samples were prepared, and alkaline phosphatase activities were determined in triplicate on 4 days by three NCIMS-accredited laboratories by the chemiluminescent method and NCIMS-approved reference methods. Equivalence of the chemiluminescent method to the approved reference methods was demonstrated for all eight products evaluated over a range of raw milk concentration from 0 to 0.5%, using criteria established by NCIMS, in which mean results obtained by the three laboratories by the chemiluminescent method were within 1 standard deviation of the mean results obtained by the NCIMS-approved reference methods at each alkaline phosphatase concentration. Procedures for measurement of microbial and reactivated alkaline phosphatase were also established for the method.

GeneQuence Salmonella Assay

A study was conducted to validate the GeneQuence Salmonella DNA hybridization assay, Performance Tested Method 030201, for detection of Salmonella spp. in peanut butter. The study was organized by the AOAC Research Institute under its Emergency Response Validation program. Peanut butter samples inoculated with S. Typhimurium were prepared by an independent laboratory and shipped to study participants for testing. The set of blind-coded test samples consisted of five uninoculated controls, 20 portions inoculated with S. Typhimurium at a low level [determined by most probable number (MPN) analysis to contain 1.1 CFU/25 g portion], and 20 portions inoculated with S. Typhimurium at a higher level (11 CFU/25 g portion by MPN analysis). Samples were tested in parallel by the GeneQuence method and by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Bacteriological Analytical Manual reference culture procedure. All five control samples were negative by both methods. For the low-level samples, the same two samples were positive by both the GeneQuence and reference methods. For the high-level samples, the same 19 samples were positive by both methods. All positive GeneQuence assays were confirmed by plating from associated broth cultures. Agreement between the GeneQuence and reference methods was 100. Sensitivity and specificity of the GeneQuence method were both 100. Because neither the low- nor the high-level samples yielded the desired fractional positive results (515 positives out of 20 samples), a second trial was conducted. Samples in the second trial contained 0.1 and 0.5 CFU/25 g portion for the low and high levels, respectively. All five control samples were negative by both methods. For the low-level samples, the same two samples were positive by both the GeneQuence and reference methods. For the high-level samples, the same three samples were positive by both methods. All positive GeneQuence assays were confirmed by plating from associated broth cultures. Sensitivity and specificity of the GeneQuence method were both 100. Although once again the desired level of fractional positive results was not obtained, there was 100 agreement between the GeneQuence and reference methods. Based on the results of both trials, it is recommended that the validated claims for Performance Tested Method 030201 be expanded to include peanut butter.

Validation Study of a Rapid ELISA for Detection of Histamine in Tuna

Neogen Corp. has developed an improved Veratox histamine test kit for the detection of histamine in tuna tissue. The purpose of this study was to validate the method under the requirements of AOAC Research Institute (RI) Performance Tested MethodsSM. Three AOAC Official MethodsSM for histamine (954.04, 957.07, and 977.13) and one ELISA method have been performance tested by the AOAC RI. The most popular is AOAC Official MethodSM977.13, the fluorometric method, which is considered the reference method, but is complicated and time-consuming. The need for a rapid ELISA test kit to be validated by the AOAC RI exists.

Reveal® Salmonella Enteritidis Test for Detection of Salmonella Enteritidis in Shell Eggs and Environmental Samples

Reveal®Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) is a lateral flow-based immunodiagnostic assay used for rapid detection of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis from pooled shell eggs and environmental samples. This assay uses highly specific antibodies to accurately detect S. Enteritidis. Studies were conducted to compare the performance of this test against reference procedures for detection of S. Enteritidis from both pooled shell eggs and environmental samples. Pooled shell eggs were inoculated with low levels of S. Enteritidis and were enriched according to the procedure prescribed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Uninoculated samples were included in each trial. Reveal SE exhibited 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity in comparison to the reference method in all trials. An abbreviated 48 h/(no hold) enrichment procedure was also developed and validated for detection of S. Enteritidis from pooled shell egg samples. This shortened enrichment procedure can be used in conjunction with the Reveal SE test and offers a significant enrichment time savings of 96 h. Chi-square analysis revealed that there was no significant difference between the abbreviated Reveal method and the reference procedure for detection of S. Enteritidis from pooled shell egg samples. Out of 245 natural drag swabs screened internally, only three samples tested Reveal SE positive and were confirmed by the reference procedure, resulting in 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. An external laboratory screened 147 poultry house environmental samples and obtained 35 Reveal SE confirmed positives for Reveal SE sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 90%. Inoculation trials with drag swabs resulted in 96% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Thus, these data demonstrate that Reveal SE is a highly sensitive and specific assay for the detection of S. Enteritidis from both pooled shell eggs and environmental samples.

Validation Study of a Lateral-Flow Immunoassay for Detection of Ruminant By-Product Material in Animal Feeds and Feed Ingredients: Performance-Tested MethodSM 010405

An immunoassay with a lateral flow format has been developed for the detection of ruminant by-product material in animal feeds and feed ingredients. The test is designed for the analysis of animal feeds destined for feeding to ruminants to ensure that they do not contain ruminant by-products in violation of the ruminant-to-ruminant feed ban established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1997. This feed ban was established as a firewall against exposure of ruminant livestock animals to the prion agents responsible for neurological diseases such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy and scrapie. The test is designed for field use, e.g., at a feed mill, and yields a qualitative (presence/absence) result in 15–20 min. The objective of the study was to validate the lateral-flow test for detection of ruminant by-product material in a variety of finished animal feeds and feed ingredients. Results indicate that the test is specific for ruminant material and can detect as little as 1% ruminant material in these commodities.

Matrix Extension Study: Listeria Right Now™ Test for Detection of Listeria spp. from Selected Environmental Surfaces Without Enrichment: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 081802

BACKGROUND

Listeria Right Now™ is a novel, enrichment-free test for the detection of Listeria spp. in swab samples taken from environmental surfaces. Results are available in less than 1 h. In a previous Performance Tested MethodSM (PTM) study, the test was validated for swab samples from stainless-steel and sealed concrete surfaces.

OBJECTIVE

A PTM matrix extension study was conducted to validate the method for the detection of Listeria spp. in swab samples from ceramic tile, plastic, and rubber surfaces.

METHODS

Performance of the Listeria Right Now method was compared to that of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual reference culture procedure for the detection of Listeria spp. in swab samples taken from inoculated ceramic tile, plastic, and rubber surfaces. Data were analyzed using a probability of detection model.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in performance between the Listeria Right Now and reference culture methods for any of the three surfaces tested, as determined by probability of detection analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The Listeria Right Now method is an effective procedure for the detection of Listeria spp. from a variety of environmental surfaces.

HIGHLIGHTS

Listeria Right Now provides accurate results, without enrichment, in real time. This enables food industry personnel to react swiftly to suspected Listeria contamination incidents.

Validation of a Modified ANSR® for E. coli O157:H7 Method for Detection of E. coli O157:H7 in Select Foods

Background: The ANSR method is based on isothermal nucleic acid amplification technology. The modifications to assay components improve sensitivity of the assay and robustness of the internal positive control. Objective: A Performance Tested MethodSM validation study was conducted to assess performance of a modified version of the ANSR® for Escherichia coli O157:H7 method. Methods: The validation study included inclusivity/exclusivity, matrix, robustness, accelerated stability, and independent laboratory testing. Results: In inclusivity testing of 55 strains of E. coli O157:H7 and E. coli O157:NM variants, all strains produced positive results. In exclusivity testing of 41 strains including E. coli of other serotypes and bacteria of closely related genera, all strains produced negative results. In matrix testing of beef trim, raw ground beef, spinach, and sprout-irrigation water, ANSR method performance was compared with that of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual reference culture procedures. Conclusions: all trials, ANSR method performance was not statistically different from that of the reference methods. Results of independent laboratory testing of ground beef corroborated those of internal testing. Introducing modest changes to three assay operating parameters did not materially affect ANSR method performance. Finally, accelerated stability testing results of three independently manufactured lots of ANSR reagents support a shelf-life of 1 year when stored at 2-8°C.

Validation of the AccuPoint Advanced ATP Hygiene Monitoring System for Sanitation Monitoring Through Detection of ATP from Stainless Steel Surfaces

The AccuPoint Advanced ATP Hygeine Monitoring System was validated by an AOAC International Performance Tested MethodSM on the detection of ATP from stainless steel surfaces. Neogen Corp.'s system is a lightweight, hand-held diagnostic tool used to validate and verify a hygiene program's effectiveness by detecting organic residues remaining on surfaces and in liquids after cleaning. The system is composed of three primary components: an electronic luminometer, fully self-contained single-use samplers, and software. The system is designed to detect adenosine triphosphate (ATP) at set thresholds and to report the measurement in relative light units (RLU). These thresholds are established by a facility to reflect effective cleaning practices. The instrument compares the measured level of ATP with the established threshold and reports the results as pass, marginal, or fail. A linear dose-response in RLU was observed with pure analyte. In the matrix and microbial studies, detection levels varied depending on the matrix and microorganism tested. Independent laboratory trials confirmed pure analyte and matrix observations. Specificity testing of similar, yet different, compounds resulted in 0 RLU for all except 2'-deoxyadenosine 5'-triphosphate sodium salt, which showed markedly reduced reactivity when compared with ATP. Also, interference by these compounds was negligible. When disinfectant residues were evaluated for their effect on the test, cleaners increased RLU output to varying degrees. Stability testing showed consistent results between three independently manufactured lots and stable results through the 9 month shelf-life. Additionally, when three readers were compared using electronic light-emitting diodes as the light source, instrument variability was low (<3%). Robustness testing results provided evidence that temperature affects test performance more than shaking time, and sampler performance improves as the temperature increases to room temperature. These results provided evidence that the AccuPoint Advanced ATP Hygiene Monitoring System produces consistent and reliable data for the evaluation of sanitation program effectiveness on stainless steel surfaces in food processing and food service facilities.

Validation of the Reveal(®) 2.0 Group D1 Salmonella Test for Detection of Salmonella Enteritidis in Raw Shell Eggs and Poultry-Associated Matrixes

A study was conducted to assess the performance of the Reveal(®) 2.0 Group D1 Salmonella lateral flow immunoassay for use in detection of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) in raw shell eggs and poultry-associated matrixes, including chicken carcass rinse and poultry feed. In inclusivity testing, the Reveal 2.0 test detected all 37 strains of SE tested. The test also detected all but one of 18 non-Enteritidis somatic group D1 Salmonella serovars examined. In exclusivity testing, none of 42 strains tested was detected. The exclusivity panel included Salmonella strains of somatic groups other than D1, as well as strains of other genera of Gram-negative bacteria. In matrix testing, performance of the Reveal 2.0 test was compared to that of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook reference culture procedure for chicken carcass rinse and to that of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual for raw shell eggs and poultry feed. For all matrixes evaluated, there were no significant differences in the ability to detect SE when comparing the Reveal 2.0 method and the appropriate reference culture procedure as determined by probability of detection statistical analysis. The ability of the Reveal 2.0 test to withstand modest perturbations to normal operating parameters was examined in robustness experiments. Results showed that the test can withstand deviations in up to three operating parameters simultaneously without significantly affecting performance. Real-time stability testing of multiple lots of Reveal 2.0 devices established the shelf life of the test device at 16 months postmanufacture.

Validation of Modifications to the ANSR(®) Listeria Method for Improved Ease of Use and Performance

A study was conducted to validate minor reagent formulation, enrichment, and procedural changes to the ANSR(®) Listeria method, Performance-Tested Method(SM) 101202. In order to improve ease of use and diminish risk of amplicon contamination, the lyophilized reagent components were reformulated for increased solubility, thus eliminating the need to mix by pipetting. In the alternative procedure, an aliquot of the lysate is added to lyophilized ANSR reagents, immediately capped, and briefly mixed by vortexing. When three foods (hot dogs, Mexican-style cheese, and cantaloupe) and sponge samples taken from a stainless steel surface were tested, significant differences in performance between the ANSR and U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual or U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook reference culture procedures were seen with hot dogs and Mexican-style cheese after 16 h enrichment, with the reference methods producing more positive results. After 24 h enrichment, however, there were no significant differences in method performance for any of the four matrixes tested. Robustness testing was also conducted, with variations to lysis buffer volume, lysis time, and sample volume having no demonstrable effect on assay results. Accelerated stability testing was carried out over a 10-week period and showed no diminishment in assay performance. A second phase of the study examined performance of the ANSR assay following enrichment in a new medium, LESS Plus broth, designed for use with all food and environmental sample types. With the alternative LESS Plus broth, there were no significant differences in performance between the ANSR method and the reference culture procedures for any of the matrixes tested after either 16 or 24 h enrichment, although 24 h enrichment is recommended for hot dogs due to higher sensitivity. Results of inclusivity and exclusivity testing using LESS Plus broth showed that the ANSR assay is highly specific, with 100% expected results for target and nontarget bacteria.

Validation of the ANSR(®) Listeria monocytogenes Method for Detection of Listeria monocytogenes in Selected Food and Environmental Samples

Work was conducted to validate performance of the ANSR(®) for Listeria monocytogenes method in selected food and environmental matrixes. This DNA-based assay involves amplification of nucleic acid via an isothermal reaction based on nicking enzyme amplification technology. Following single-step sample enrichment for 16-24 h for most matrixes, the assay is completed in 40 min using only simple instrumentation. When 50 distinct strains of L. monocytogenes were tested for inclusivity, 48 produced positive results, the exceptions being two strains confirmed by PCR to lack the assay target gene. Forty-seven nontarget strains (30 species), including multiple non-monocytogenes Listeria species as well as non-Listeria, Gram-positive bacteria, were tested, and all generated negative ANSR assay results. Performance of the ANSR method was compared with that of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook reference culture procedure for detection of L. monocytogenes in hot dogs, pasteurized liquid egg, and sponge samples taken from an inoculated stainless steel surface. In addition, ANSR performance was measured against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual reference method for detection of L. monocytogenes in Mexican-style cheese, cantaloupe, sprout irrigation water, and guacamole. With the single exception of pasteurized liquid egg at 16 h, ANSR method performance as quantified by the number of positives obtained was not statistically different from that of the reference methods. Robustness trials demonstrated that deliberate introduction of small deviations to the normal assay parameters did not affect ANSR method performance. Results of accelerated stability testing conducted using two manufactured lots of reagents predicts stability at the specified storage temperature of 4°C of more than 1 year.

Validation of the ANSR® Listeria Method for Detection of Listeria spp. in Selected Foods

ANSR® Listeria was previously certified as Performance Tested Method(SM) 101202 for detection of Listeria spp. on selected environmental surfaces. This study proposes a matrix extension to the method for detection of Listeria spp. in selected food matrixes. The method is an isothermal nucleic acid amplification assay based on the nicking enzyme amplification reaction technology. Following single-step sample enrichment for 16-24 h, the assay is completed in less than 50 min, requiring only simple instrumentation. Inclusivity testing was performed using a panel of 51 strains of Listeria spp., representing the species L. grayi, L. innocua, L. ivanovii, L. monocytogenes, L. seeligeri, and L. welshimeri. All strains tested were detected by the ANSR assay. Exclusivity testing of 30 strains representing non-Listeria Gram-positive bacteria yielded no evidence of cross-reactivity. Performance of the ANSR method for detection of Listeria spp. was compared to that of reference culture procedures for pasteurized liquid egg, pasteurized 2% milk, Mexican-style cheese, ice cream, smoked salmon, lettuce, cantaloupe, and guacamole. Data obtained in these unpaired studies and analyzed using a probability of detection model demonstrated that there were no statistically significant differences in results between the ANSR and reference culture methods, except for milk at 16 h and cantaloupe. In milk and smoked salmon, ANSR sensitivity was low at 16 h and therefore the recommended incubation time is 24 h. In cantaloupe, ANSR was found to be more sensitive than the reference culture method at both 16 and 24 h in independent laboratory testing. The ANSR Listeria method can be used as an accurate, rapid, and simple alternative to standard culture methods for detection of Listeria spp. in selected food types.

Validation of a Minor Modification to the Soleris® Direct Yeast and Mold Vial and Selective Supplement

Here we describe results of a study to validate minor reagent formulation changes to the Soleris Direct Yeast and Mold (DYM) automated growth-based method for semi-quantitative detection of yeast and mold in food products. In order to reduce the maximum concentration of the selective agent chloramphenicol in the Soleris reagents, chloramphenicol was removed from the selective supplement and added to the vial growth medium itself. Therefore, both the vial medium and supplement have been reformulated in an alternative version of the method. A probability of detection (POD) statistical model was used to compare Soleris results at multiple test thresholds (dilutions) with plate counts determined using the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual dilution plating procedure. Three matrixes were tested; yogurt, tomato juice, and cocoa powder. POD analysis showed that the percentage of positive Soleris tests at various test thresholds were within the limits predicted by the reference method plate counts for all matrixes evaluated. Real-time stability data on three manufactured lots showed that the modified Soleris vial and supplement are stable for at a minimum of 10 months when stored at 2-8°C. In sum, results presented here demonstrate that the modifications to the Soleris DYM vial and supplement do not impact method performance. The modified Soleris DYM method can be used as an accurate alternative to conventional dilution plating procedures for semi-quantitative determination of yeast and mold at threshold levels, while saving as much as 3 days in analysis time.

Validation of the Soleris direct yeast and mold method for semiquantitative determination of yeast and mold in a variety of foods

A study was carried out to determine the efficacy of the Soleris Direct Yeast and Mold (DYM) automated growth-based method for semiquantitative detection of yeast and mold in a variety of food products. A probability of detection (POD) statistical model was used to compare Soleris results at multiple test thresholds (dilutions) with plate counts determined using the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual, Chapter 18, dilution plating procedure. Fourteen naturally contaminated food products were tested, with Soleris testing performed at three or more threshold levels for each food. Using the POD model, the majority of Soleris test results were in statistical agreement with the reference plating procedures. The exceptions included a single threshold level in yogurt, black pepper, dried fruit, and dry pet food, and two levels in nonfat dry milk and saw palmetto powder. In all but one of these instances, the exception being pet food, the statistical disagreement was due to Soleris estimating a higher level of contamination than the reference method. Results of ruggedness testing showed that the Soleris method produced accurate results even when significant variances in a critical operating parameter, incubation temperature, were introduced. Results of the internal and independent laboratory validation studies showed that the Soleris DYM method can be used as an accurate alternative to conventional dilution plating procedures for evaluation of yeast and mold counts at threshold levels, while saving as much as 72 h in analysis time.

Semiquantitative determination of mesophilic, aerobic microorganisms in cocoa products using the Soleris NF-TVC method

The Soleris Non-fermenting Total Viable Count method was previously validated for a wide variety of food products, including cocoa powder. A matrix extension study was conducted to validate the method for use with cocoa butter and cocoa liquor. Test samples included naturally contaminated cocoa liquor and cocoa butter inoculated with natural microbial flora derived from cocoa liquor. A probability of detection statistical model was used to compare Soleris results at multiple test thresholds (dilutions) with aerobic plate counts determined using the AOAC Official Method 966.23 dilution plating method. Results of the two methods were not statistically different at any dilution level in any of the three trials conducted. The Soleris method offers the advantage of results within 24 h, compared to the 48 h required by standard dilution plating methods.

Validation of the Soleris NF-TVC method for determination of total viable count in a variety of foods

A study was conducted to determine the efficacy of the Soleris Non-fermenting-Total Viable Count (NF-TVC) automated growth-based method for semiquantitative detection of mesophilic, aerobic microorganisms in a variety of food products. A probability of detection (POD) statistical model was used to compare Soleris results at multiple test thresholds (dilutions) with aerobic plate counts determined using reference dilution plating procedures. Nine naturally contaminated food products were tested, with Soleris testing performed at three or four threshold levels for each food. Using the POD model, all Soleris test results were in statistical agreement with the reference plating procedures with the exception of a single threshold level in two trials with black pepper, and a single threshold level in the independent laboratory trial with cheesecake. Results of ruggedness testing showed that the Soleris method produced accurate results even when minor variances in operating parameters, including sample volume and incubation temperature, were introduced. Results of the internal and independent laboratory validation studies showed that the Soleris NF-TVC method can be used as an accurate alternative to conventional dilution plating procedures for evaluation of microbial counts at threshold levels, while saving 24 h or more in analysis time.

Reveal E. coli 2.0 method for detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in raw beef

Reveal E. coli 2.0 is a new lateral-flow immunodiagnostic test for detection of E. coli O157:H7 and O157:NM in raw beef trim and ground beef. Compared with the original Reveal E. coli O157:H7 assay, the new test utilizes a unique antibody combination resulting in improved test specificity. The device architecture and test procedure have also been modified, and a single enrichment protocol was developed which allows the test to be performed at any point during an enrichment period of 12 to 20 h. Results of inclusivity and exclusivity testing showed that the test is specific for E. coli serotypes O157:H7 and O157:NM, with the exception of two strains of O157:H38 and one strain of O157:H43 which produced positive reactions. In internal and independent laboratory trials comparing the Reveal 2.0 method to the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service reference culture procedure for detection of E. coli O157:H7 in 65 and 375 g raw beef trim and ground beef samples, there were no statistically significant differences in method performance with the exception of a single internal trial with 375 g ground beef samples in which the Reveal method produced significantly more positive results. There were no unconfirmed positive results by the Reveal assay, for specificity of 100%. Results of ruggedness testing showed that the Reveal test produces accurate results even with substantial deviation in sample volume or device incubation time or temperature. However, addition of the promoter reagent to the test sample prior to introducing the test device is essential to proper test performance.

Reveal Salmonella 2.0 test for detection of Salmonella spp. in foods and environmental samples. Performance Tested Method 960801

Reveal Salmonella 2.0 is an improved version of the original Reveal Salmonella lateral flow immunoassay and is applicable to the detection of Salmonella enterica serogroups A-E in a variety of food and environmental samples. A Performance Tested Method validation study was conducted to compare performance of the Reveal 2.0 method with that of the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service or U.S. Food and Drug Administration/Bacteriological Analytical Manual reference culture methods for detection of Salmonella spp. in chicken carcass rinse, raw ground turkey, raw ground beef, hot dogs, raw shrimp, a ready-to-eat meal product, dry pet food, ice cream, spinach, cantaloupe, peanut butter, stainless steel surface, and sprout irrigation water. In a total of 17 trials performed internally and four trials performed in an independent laboratory, there were no statistically significant differences in performance of the Reveal 2.0 and reference culture procedures as determined by Chi-square analysis, with the exception of one trial with stainless steel surface and one trial with sprout irrigation water where there were significantly more positive results by the Reveal 2.0 method. Considering all data generated in testing food samples using enrichment procedures specifically designed for the Reveal method, overall sensitivity of the Reveal method relative to the reference culture methods was 99%. In testing environmental samples, sensitivity of the Reveal method relative to the reference culture method was 164%. For select foods, use of the Reveal test in conjunction with reference method enrichment resulted in overall sensitivity of 92%. There were no unconfirmed positive results on uninoculated control samples in any trials for specificity of 100%. In inclusivity testing, 102 different Salmonella serovars belonging to serogroups A-E were tested and 99 were consistently positive in the Reveal test. In exclusivity testing of 33 strains of non-salmonellae representing 14 genera, 32 were negative when tested with Reveal following nonselective enrichment, and the remaining strain was found to be substantially inhibited by the enrichment media used with the Reveal method. Results of ruggedness testing showed that the Reveal test produces accurate results even with substantial deviation in sample volume or device development time.

Reveal®Salmonella 2.0 Test for Detection of Salmonella spp. in Foods and Environmental Samples

Reveal Salmonella 2.0 is an improved version of the original Reveal Salmonella lateral flow immunoassay and is applicable to the detection of Salmonella enterica serogroups A–E in a variety of food and environmental samples. A Performance Tested MethodSM validation study was conducted to compare performance of the Reveal 2.0 method with that of the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service or U.S. Food and Drug Administration/Bacteriological Analytical Manual reference culture methods for detection of Salmonella spp. in chicken carcass rinse, raw ground turkey, raw ground beef, hot dogs, raw shrimp, a ready-to-eat meal product, dry pet food, ice cream, spinach, cantaloupe, peanut butter, stainless steel surface, and sprout irrigation water. In a total of 17 trials performed internally and four trials performed in an independent laboratory, there were no statistically significant differences in performance of the Reveal 2.0 and reference culture procedures as determined by Chi-square analysis, with the exception of one trial with stainless steel surface and one trial with sprout irrigation water where there were significantly more positive results by the Reveal 2.0 method. Considering all data generated in testing food samples using enrichment procedures specifically designed for the Reveal method, overall sensitivity of the Reveal method relative to the reference culture methods was 99%. In testing environmental samples, sensitivity of the Reveal method relative to the reference culture method was 164%. For select foods, use of the Reveal test in conjunction with reference method enrichment resulted in overall sensitivity of 92%. There were no unconfirmed positive results on uninoculated control samples in any trials for specificity of 100%. In inclusivity testing, 102 different Salmonella serovars belonging to serogroups A–E were tested and 99 were consistently positive in the Reveal test. In exclusivity testing of 33 strains of non-salmonellae representing 14 genera, 32 were negative when tested with Reveal following nonselective enrichment, and the remaining strain was found to be substantially inhibited by the enrichment media used with the Reveal method. Results of ruggedness testing showed that the Reveal test produces accurate results even with substantial deviation in sample volume or device development time.

Reveal Salmonella enteritidis test for detection of Salmonella enteritidis in shell eggs and environmental samples

Reveal Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) is a lateral flow-based immunodiagnostic assay used for rapid detection of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis from pooled shell eggs and environmental samples. This assay uses highly specific antibodies to accurately detect S. Enteritidis. Studies were conducted to compare the performance of this test against reference procedures for detection of S. Enteritidis from both pooled shell eggs and environmental samples. Pooled shell eggs were inoculated with low levels ofS. Enteritidis and were enriched according to the procedure prescribed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Uninoculated samples were included in each trial. Reveal SE exhibited 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity in comparison to the reference method in all trials. An abbreviated 48 h/(no hold) enrichment procedure was also developed and validated for detection ofS. Enteritidis from pooled shell egg samples. This shortened enrichment procedure can be used in conjunction with the Reveal SE test and offers a significant enrichment time savings of 96 h. Chi-square analysis revealed that there was no significant difference between the abbreviated Reveal method and the reference procedure for detection ofS. Enteritidis from pooled shell egg samples. Out of 245 natural drag swabs screened internally, only three samples tested Reveal SE positive and were confirmed by the reference procedure, resulting in 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. An external laboratory screened 147 poultry house environmental samples and obtained 35 Reveal SE confirmed positives for Reveal SE sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 90%. Inoculation trials with drag swabs resulted in 96% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Thus, these data demonstrate that Reveal SE is a highly sensitive and specific assay for the detection of S. Enteritidis from both pooled shell eggs and environmental samples.

Validation study of a rapid ELISA for detection of histamine in tuna

Neogen Corp. has developed an improved Veratox histamine test kit for the detection of histamine in tuna tissue. The purpose of this study was to validate the method under the requirements of AOAC Research Institute (RI) Performance Tested Methods. Three AOAC Official Methods for histamine (954.04, 957.07, and 977.13) and one ELISA method have been performance tested by the AOAC RI. The most popular is AOAC Official Method 977.13, the fluorometric method, which is considered the reference method, but is complicated and time-consuming. The need for a rapid ELISA test kit to be validated by the AOAC RI exists.

GeneQuence" Salmonella assay. Performance Tested Method 030201

A study was conducted to validate the GeneQuence Salmonella DNA hybridization assay, Performance Tested Method 030201, for detection of Salmonella spp. in peanut butter. The study was organized by the AOAC Research Institute under its Emergency Response Validation program. Peanut butter samples inoculated with S. Typhimurium were prepared by an independent laboratory and shipped to study participants for testing. The set of blind-coded test samples consisted of five uninoculated controls, 20 portions inoculated with S. Typhimurium at a low level [determined by most probable number (MPN) analysis to contain 1.1 CFU/25 g portion], and 20 portions inoculated with S. Typhimurium at a higher level (11 CFU/25 g portion by MPN analysis). Samples were tested in parallel by the GeneQuence method and by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Bacteriological Analytical Manual reference culture procedure. All five control samples were negative by both methods. For the low-level samples, the same two samples were positive by both the GeneQuence and reference methods. For the high-level samples, the same 19 samples were positive by both methods. All positive GeneQuence assays were confirmed by plating from associated broth cultures. Agreement between the GeneQuence and reference methods was 100%. Sensitivity and specificity of the GeneQuence method were both 100%. Because neither the low- nor the high-level samples yielded the desired fractional positive results (5-15 positives out of 20 samples), a second trial was conducted. Samples in the second trial contained 0.1 and 0.5 CFU/25 g portion for the low and high levels, respectively. All five control samples were negative by both methods. For the low-level samples, the same two samples were positive by both the GeneQuence and reference methods. For the high-level samples, the same three samples were positive by both methods. All positive GeneQuence assays were confirmed by plating from associated broth cultures. Sensitivity and specificity of the GeneQuence method were both 100%. Although once again the desired level of fractional positive results was not obtained, there was 100% agreement between the GeneQuence and reference methods. Based on the results of both trials, it is recommended that the validated claims for Performance Tested Method 030201 be expanded to include peanut butter.

Validation of the Soleris yeast and mold test for semiquantitative determination of yeast and mold in selected foods. Performance tested methods 040901

The Soleris yeast and mold method, a growth-based test system with an optical detection end point, was evaluated for its ability to detect yeast and mold contamination in a wide variety of foods. The Soleris test was used in a semiquantitative manner, in which the test result is positive or negative at a threshold level determined by the dilution and volume of sample homogenate added to the Soleris test vial. By testing at two or more threshold levels, the contamination level can be estimated. The LOD of the Soleris method is 10 CFU/g when 1 mL of a 1:10 sample homogenate is added to the test vial. In these studies, the Soleris results were compared to plate counts obtained using the U.S Food and Drug Administration/Bacteriological Analytical Manual direct plating method, and agreement between the methods was calculated. Considering results from both internal and independent laboratory trials, overall agreement between the methods was 90%. Chi-square analysis showed, with few exceptions, that results of the Soleris and direct plating methods were not statistically different. Ruggedness testing was performed, and the Soleris method was found to be robust when challenged with marginally suboptimal assay conditions. Results of inclusivity testing showed that the Soleris test vial medium supports the growth of a wide variety of yeasts and molds common to foods. Results of exclusivity testing showed that bacteria do not produce positive results, even when present in the vial in relatively high initial concentrations. The Soleris method produces results in 72 h or less and thus offers considerable time savings in comparison to other commonly used yeast and mold methods.

Validation study of a receptor-based lateral flow assay for detection of beta-lactam antibiotics in milk

A validation study designed to meet the requirements of the AOAC Research Institute and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Center for Veterinary Medicine, was conducted for a receptor-based, immunochromatographic method (BetaStar US) for detection of beta-lactam antibiotic residues in raw, commingled bovine milk. The assay was found to detect amoxicillin, ampicillin, cephapirin, cloxacillin, and penicillin G at levels below the FDA tolerance/safe levels but above the maximum sensitivity thresholds established by the National Conference on Interstate Milk Shipments. Results of the Part I (internal) and Part II (independent laboratory) dose-response studies using spiked samples were in very close agreement for all five drugs tested, with differences between the Part I and Part II 90/95% sensitivity values ranging from 0 to 1 ppb. The test was able to detect all five drugs at the approximate 90/95% sensitivity levels when present as incurred residues in milk collected from cows that had been treated with the specific drug. A sixth drug, ceftiofur, was found to be undetectable at levels of < or = 500 ppb (as total ceftiofur metabolites from incurred residues in milk samples). The selectivity of the assay was 100%, because no false-positive results were obtained in tests of >1000 control milk samples. The assay was found to be applicable to the testing of frozen raw milk samples. Results of ruggedness experiments established the operating parameter tolerances for the BetaStar US assay. Results of cross-reactivity testing established that the assay detects certain other beta-lactam drugs (dicloxacillin and ticarcillin), but it does not cross-react with any of 30 drugs belonging to other classes. Abnormally high bacterial or somatic cell counts in raw milk produced no interference with the ability of the test to detect beta-lactams at tolerance/safe levels.

Minor modification to official method 2000.14, Reveal for E. coli O157:H7 test in selected foods and environmental swabs (20-hour method): validation of the test for 375 g raw beef samples

A lateral flow immunoassay for Escherichia coli O157:H7 (Reveal E. coli O157:H7, 20-h version), previously validated for 25 g raw ground beef, raw beef cubes, apple cider, lettuce rinse, and environmental swab samples, has been validated for use in testing 375 g samples of raw ground beef and raw beef cubes. The Reveal method, including culture confirmation of positive immunoassay results, was evaluated in comparison to the current reference culture procedure of the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service. For raw ground beef, the Reveal and reference methods produced the same number of confirmed positive results. For raw beef cubes, the Reveal method produced more positives than the reference method, but this difference was not statistically significant. The Reveal method exhibited 100% specificity, with no false-positive results obtained on uninoculated control samples. It is recommended that this minor modification to Method 2000.14 be adopted Revised First Action.

Minor modification to official method 2000.13, Reveal for E. coli O157:H7 test system in selected foods (8-hour method): validation of the test for 375 g raw beef samples

A lateral flow immunoassay for Escherichia coli O157:H7 (Reveal E. coli O157:H7, 8-h version), previously validated for 25 g raw ground beef, raw beef cubes, and lettuce rinse samples, has been validated for use in testing 375 g samples of raw ground beef and raw beef cubes. The Reveal method, including culture confirmation of positive immunoassay results, was evaluated in comparison to the current reference culture procedure of the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service. For both sample types, the Reveal test with 12-h enrichment produced more positives than the reference method, although the differences were not statistically significant. Statistical equivalence to the reference method was also obtained at 10 and 11 h of enrichment for raw beef cubes and at 8, 10, and 11 h for raw ground beef, but maximum sensitivity of the method is only achieved after 12 h of enrichment. The Reveal method exhibited 100% specificity, with no false-positive results obtained on uninoculated control samples. It is recommended that this minor modification to Method 2000.13 be adopted Revised First Action.

Precollaborative study of the GeneQuence Salmonella assay using 24-hour enrichment protocols for detection of Salmonella spp. in select foods

New enrichment protocols are described for use with a DNA hybridization (DNAH) method for detection of Salmonella spp. in select foods. GeneQuence Salmonella, in its original version, utilized a 3-stage enrichment of minimum 42 h duration. New 2-stage procedures of 24-28 h duration are described for raw poultry, raw beef, pasteurized egg products, milk chocolate, and dry pet food. In the validation study described here, a total of 345 samples were tested by the abbreviated DNAH method in parallel with either the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Bacteriological Analytical Manual (FDA/BAM) or U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) reference culture procedures. Results showed an overall sensitivity for the DNAH method of 97.1% (false-negative rate 2.9%). There were no false-positive results by the DNAH method; therefore the specificity was 100%. Overall agreement between the DNAH and reference culture methods was 98.5%. There were no significant differences in performance between the DNAH and reference methods for any of the foods tested as determined by Chi-square analysis. It is recommended that the DNAH method be subjected to AOAC collaborative study.

Precollaborative Study of the GeneQuence® Salmonella Assay Using 24-Hour Enrichment Protocols for Detection of Salmonella spp. in Select Foods

New enrichment protocols are described for use with a DNA hybridization (DNAH) method for detection of Salmonella spp. in select foods. GeneQuence® Salmonella, in its original version, utilized a 3-stage enrichment of minimum 42 h duration. New 2-stage procedures of 2428 h duration are described for raw poultry, raw beef, pasteurized egg products, milk chocolate, and dry pet food. In the validation study described here, a total of 345 samples were tested by the abbreviated DNAH method in parallel with either the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Bacteriological Analytical Manual (FDA/BAM) or U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) reference culture procedures. Results showed an overall sensitivity for the DNAH method of 97.1% (false-negative rate 2.9%). There were no false-positive results by the DNAH method; therefore the specificity was 100%. Overall agreement between the DNAH and reference culture methods was 98.5%. There were no significant differences in performance between the DNAH and reference methods for any of the foods tested as determined by Chi-square analysis. It is recommended that the DNAH method be subjected to AOAC collaborative study.

Validation study of a lateral-flow immunoassay for detection of ruminant by-product material in animal feeds and feed ingredients

An immunoassay with a lateral flow format has been developed for the detection of ruminant by-product material in animal feeds and feed ingredients. The test is designed for the analysis of animal feeds destined for feeding to ruminants to ensure that they do not contain ruminant by-products in violation of the ruminant-to-ruminant feed ban established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1997. This feed ban was established as a firewall against exposure of ruminant livestock animals to the prion agents responsible for neurological diseases such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy and scrapie. The test is designed for field use, e.g., at a feed mill, and yields a qualitative (presence/absence) result in 15-20 min. The objective of the study was to validate the lateral-flow test for detection of ruminant by-product material in a variety of finished animal feeds and feed ingredients. Results indicate that the test is specific for ruminant material and can detect as little as 1% ruminant material in these commodities.

Deoxyribonucleic acid hybridization method for the detection of Listeria in dairy products, seafoods, and meats: collaborative study

The method is based on the hybridization of synthetic deoxyribonucleic acid probes to ribosomal ribonucleic acid sequences unique to Listeria. This method was compared to 2 culture methods: the U.S. Food and Drug Administration method for the detection of Listeria in dairy products and seafoods and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service method for Listeria in meats. Six food types with replicate samples containing various concentrations of Listeria were analyzed by the collaborating laboratories. Listeria was detected in 774 samples using the DNAH method and in 772 samples using a culture method. The DNAH and culture methods were in agreement for 668 samples containing Listeria and 306 samples without Listeria. The overall rate of agreement between methods was 82.3%. The method has been adopted first action by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.