In-house testing for Salmonella
We run a small in-house lab in our food processing plant and are looking for a salmonella indicator test so we don't have to send it to an outside lab. Any recommendations for tests we can use in-house that are cost effective?
We run a small in-house lab in our food processing plant and are looking for a salmonella indicator test so we don't have to send it to an outside lab. Any recommendations for tests we can use in-house that are cost effective?
Hi pastamamma,
If by "indicator test", you mean an instant test for salmonella like using pH paper, afaik, it doesn't exist. The reason is that food-related Salmonella testing procedures typically require a preliminary enrichment of the sample, often of overnight duration..
IMEX traditional Salmonella testing requires micro. experience and technically knowledgeable lab personnel/eqipment. Automated Equipment with the highest sensitivity is not cheap.
Yr options may depend on factors like -
(1) the product/reasons for testing
(2) whether local regulations allow salmonella testing in-house
(3) if the lab is technically capable of doing micro. testing for pathogens like salmonella.
(4) if you require a validated procedure, eg AOAC
(5) yr interpretation of "cost-effective"
Hi Pastamamma,
Depending on your needs and the answer to the questions posted by Charles C. the the Hygiena InSite line of Salmonella indicator swabs might fit the bill. I do not use them in my plant so I cannot comment on their efficacy.
The info for the swabs is here.
Thank you both. The hygenia product would be great if it tested our actual product. We are looking for something similar to this but ideally without the enrichment steps as that adds a lot of time to the process.
Thank you both. The hygenia product would be great if it tested our actual product. We are looking for something similar to this but ideally without the enrichment steps as that adds a lot of time to the process.
Hi pastamamma,
You're right, anyone who devises an accurate, instant, safe, in-plant test kit for Salmonella should make a fortune.
The hygiena product (2015) looks interesting but, as with most commercial "rapid" test kits, the analytical caveat is the "presumptive". I could not find any detailed evaluations for sensitivity/specicity.
Hygiena™ InSite Salmonella is an easy-to-use, self-contained, environmental Salmonella spp. test. Each device contains a liquid medium formulated with growth enhancers and chromogenic compounds selective for Salmonella species. Simply swab the test area and incubate! A change in color after 24-48 hours of incubation is considered presumptive positive for Salmonella species.
Bit more info. here -
http://www.foodquali...lts-in-24-hours
PS - Re yr link, IMEX confirmation demands the use of serology.