3M Molecular Detection Assay for E. coli O157 Earns ‘Official Methods of Analysis’ Distinction by AOAC INTERNATIONAL

3M Food Safety announced today that its 3M™ Molecular Detection Assay 2 - E. coli O157 (including H7) has been granted First Action status through the Official Methods of Analysis^SM program by AOAC^® INTERNATIONAL.

The 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2 - E. coli 0157 (including H7) was introduced in April 2016, and joins the family of the next generation molecular pathogen detection test kits using a single assay protocol, enabling batch processing of samples and improving efficiency in the laboratory. The 3M™ Molecular Detection System was introduced in 2011 and is relied on by food processors, laboratories, universities and government agencies in over 40 countries for accurate pathogen testing.

This next generation of assays also includes tests for Cronobacter, Salmonella, Listeria and Listeria monocytogenes. The 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2 provides customers with a streamlined workflow that simplifies their pathogen testing. Compared to first generation tests, the new assay processing time is 30 percent faster and instrument run time is only one hour for E. coli O157 (including H7). These features give customers flexibility in their testing that allow them to make critical decisions faster.

“We are proud that this test has been recognized as an official testing method,” said Adriana Robayo Nino, global pathogen manager with 3M Food Safety. “AOAC recognition of the 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2 - E. coli O157 (including H7) emphasizes the value of a pathogen detection solution that is fast, accurate and reduces the risk of releasing products contaminated with E. coli O157:H7 which can lead to disease outbreaks.”

AOAC INTERNATIONAL facilitates consensus and technical standards for the analytical science communities. Food processor, university, government and contract testing laboratories around the world rely on AOAC Official Methods of Analysis validation rigor when choosing chemical, microbial and molecular testing methods. The approval process for becoming an Official Method involves intense review by multiple, independent laboratories and subsequently by an expert review panel. The full study conducted for the AOAC Official Method of Analysis validation of the 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2 for E. coli O157 (including H7) will be published in an upcoming edition of the Journal of AOAC INTERNATIONAL and will be made available online.