Beef processors in Canada can now use a real-time BAX® System assay from DuPont Nutrition & Health to test ground beef and beef trim for E. coli O157:H7. This rapid method delivers same-day results, providing reduced hold times and increased confidence in release decisions.

Health Canada, the federal department responsible for helping Canadians maintain their health, is publishing the approved method as MFLP-76: The BAX® System real-time assay for the detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in foods in volume three of the Compendium of Analytical Methods.

This real-time assay has already been certified by the AOAC Research Institute as a performance-tested method for detecting E. coli O157:H7 on real-world samples sizes with shortened enrichment times. Developed in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Services of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the assay quickly detects all known E. coli O157:H7, even atypical strains.

According to Shannon McCoy, Canada business manager for DuPont Nutrition & Health, 'This latest government approval allows meat producers in Canada to better compete in world markets by using technology that reduces total test time while maintaining the highest levels of food safety.'