Rapid E.coli detection system gains AOAC* validation

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

Recently launched by Matrix MicroScience Ltd. (Newmarket, Cambs., UK) the PATHATRIX takes just 16 hours to complete an E. coli O157 or Salmonella test, significantly less than any detection process currently available. Typically, tests have previously taken between two to four days.

In tests on raw ground beef, which had been artificially contaminated with E. coli O157, the PATHATRIX system was found to be 221% more sensitive than the USDA FSIS method. PATHATRIX successfully detected low numbers of E. Coli O157 in 88% of the 60 samples tested, whereas only 24% of the samples tested by the USDA FSIS method were confirmed as positive.

Roy Betts of the CCFRA commented,
‘In addition to providing a better detection rate, the PATHATRIX E. coli O157 test was simple to perform, required minimal hands-on time and provided presumptive results in as little as 24 hours. By comparison, the USDA FSIS method was labour and materials intensive and took 48 hours to provide a presumptive result.’

Dr. Adrian Parton, Managing Director of Matrix Microscience added,
‘We are delighted to have received AOAC validation. The evaluation exercise vindicated our belief that the PATHATRIX system is a fundamental breakthrough for the rapid testing of E. coli O157 and Salmonella.’

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

*Association of Official Agricultural Chemists

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