Alcontrol Laboritories switches to PATHATRIX system for E.coli 0157 testing

Having completed successful trials on behalf of a number of major retail chains, UKAS accredited, ALcontrol Laboratories is to utilise Matrix Microscience Ltd.’s new PATHATRIX system, for its E. Coli 0157 food testing in the UK.

Designed for the rapid detection and positive identification of microbiological food contaminants, PATHATRIX recently received AOAC R1 Validation after an extensive evaluation process at Campden & Chorleywood Food Research Association (CCFRA).

On behalf of its customers, ALcontrol Laboratories conducts some 20,000 E.coli O157 tests per annum at its state of the art laboratories, which are located throughout the UK and Ireland. ALcontrol will utilise the PATHATRIX system to complement its existing test methods. The system, which takes just 16 hours to complete an E. Coli O157test, is significantly quicker than any detection process currently available. Typically, tests have previously taken between two to four days. This new rapid test will provide ALcontrol’s customers with a greater choice of analysis and is part of ALcontrol’s drive towards continuous service improvements for its customers.

ALcontrol’s food testing service covers a broad spectrum of food types including fresh meats, vegetables, salad, sandwiches and ready meals and encompasses all stages of the food manufacturing processes.

Matthew Masters of ALcontrol commented,
‘We conducted extensive trials using the PATHATRIX system on a variety of meat products and found it to be significantly more sensitive than comparable E. Coli O157 testing methods. In addition to providing a better detection rate, the PATHATRIX E.coli O157 test is extremely simple to perform, requires minimal hands-on time and provides presumptive results in as little as 24 hours. ‘

Dr. Adrian Parton, Managing Director of Matrix Microscience added,
‘We are delighted that ALcontrol is utilising PATHATRIX for its E.coli O157 testing as it is one of the largest food and environmental organisations in the UK, with a reputation for service excellence and reliability.’
‘Although the PATHATRIX system is new to the market, we are already experiencing a phenomenal amount of international interest from major retail chains, contract laboratories and food manufacturers.’

Matrix is currently developing a further test, FLURATRIX, which could reduce test times down to as little as 4.5 hours.

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