DuPont Nutrition & Health has released a new test for detecting Staphylococcus aureus in powdered infant formula and ground beef. This real-time PCR assay, developed in alliance with Applied Biosystems, is the latest addition to the award-winning BAX® system line of genetic-based diagnostic solutions for the food industry.

S. aureus are common bacteria often found on human skin, in nasal passages and in the environment. Some strains of S. aureus produce toxins that can cause illness when ingested through contaminated food, such as cream-filled bakery products, sandwich fillings and meat and dairy products. Traditional testing methods for S. aureus in food require 3-5 days or more for cultural growth and manual enumeration. The BAX® system provides accurate and reliable automated detection with next-day results.

"With this new assay, food companies get the information they need in just 24 hours," said Kevin Huttman, president of DuPont Nutrition & Health. "When you're looking at shelf life, time is money and the BAX® system helps the food industry save on both."

DuPont Nutrition & Health provides innovative, science-based diagnostic products. The BAX® system offers advanced DNA-based detection of microbes in food, from raw ingredients to finished products. Proprietary enrichment media are available in bulk powder or as unit-sized DuPont™ StatMedia™ soluble packets. DuPont Nutrition & Health also markets the patented RiboPrinter® System, the world's only automated DNA fingerprinting instrument that rapidly pinpoints sources of bacteria in food and pharmaceuticals.