Idaho Technology, Inc. (ITI) has received AOAC Performance Tested Method approval for two additional Salmonella matrices — stainless steel environmental samples and dry pet food.

These matrices join the list of already approved matrices in the Salmonella LT Food Security System including chocolate, cooked ham, fresh raw chicken, lettuce, raw ground beef, and liquid whole eggs.

This assay uses real-time PCR technology to identify the presence of Salmonella in less than one hour after a pre-enrichment period.

The validation of these matrices is an important development as salmonellosis is the most commonly reported food-borne illness worldwide. Surfaces such as stainless steel are potential sources of food cross-contamination. Dry pet food poses additional risks as Salmonella can cause serious infections in dogs and cats and illness may also occur in humans when contaminated pet food is handled.

'We have developed an easy, accurate, and timely PCR assay for detecting Salmonella in food and on surfaces,' stated Kristine Clemens, ITI food safety validation manager. 'We are thrilled to add these critical matrices to our AOAC approval, giving companies even more testing options.' The Salmonella LT kit is available for purchase in both low and high volume formats for use with the R.A.P.I.D.® LT Food Security System (FSS).

Visit www.idahotech.com for more information.