Food processors who already rely on the BAX® system from DuPont Qualicon as a certified method for detecting Salmonella in their end products and ingredients can now use the same polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay to monitor their production environments.

Validation studies comparing the BAX® system to traditional culture methods for detecting Salmonella on stainless steel, concrete and other surfaces found that the BAX® system demonstrated the same level of accuracy but shaved days off the time to result. Based on those studies, AOAC Research Institute (Gaithersburg, Md.) has extended their certification of the BAX® system Salmonella assay as a Performance TestedSM method for use on environmental samples.

“The good news for customers, especially those who require certified methods, is that they can improve operational efficiencies while saving time and money by using a single, highly reliable test — the BAX® system Salmonella assay — for all sample types,” said Kevin Huttman, president — DuPont Qualicon.

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 also detect Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli O157:H7, Campylobacter, and more. With certifications and regulatory approvals in the Americas, Asia and Europe, the BAX® system is recognized globally as the most advanced pathogen testing system available to food companies. DuPont Qualicon also markets the RiboPrinter® system, an automated method for identifying bacteria and pinpointing the contamination source. For more information and photos, please visit www.qualicon.com.

DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.