AOAC 2011.23 Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli Detection
The AOAC Official Method 2011.23 is a critical tool in the food and feed industry for detecting Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), specifically serotypes O157:H7, O26, O111, O103, O121, and O145. These bacteria are associated with significant public health risks due to their ability to produce Shiga toxins that can cause serious illness in humans.
STEC infections typically manifest as bloody diarrhea or abdominal cramps but may lead to more severe conditions such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Given the potential for these pathogens, food safety regulations mandate their detection in raw meat, leafy greens, sprouts, and other high-risk food items. This test is essential for ensuring that products meet regulatory standards and protect consumers from contamination.
Our laboratory adheres to stringent quality control measures during every step of this testing process. From sample collection to final analysis, we employ advanced microbiological techniques and cutting-edge instruments to deliver reliable results. The AOAC 2011.23 method involves enrichment culture followed by detection using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This approach ensures high sensitivity and specificity, making it suitable for both routine screening and confirmatory testing.
The process begins with sample preparation where raw materials are treated to remove contaminants while preserving the target organisms. Enrichment cultures then incubate the samples under controlled conditions to enhance microbial growth, allowing for accurate detection of STEC colonies. Following this step, we perform ELISA assays using monoclonal antibodies specific to Shiga toxins present in the culture media.
This method is particularly advantageous because it allows laboratories to meet regulatory requirements efficiently and cost-effectively. By adhering strictly to the AOAC protocol, our facility ensures consistency across all tests, thereby providing accurate results that can be relied upon by food manufacturers and regulators alike.
Our laboratory is committed to delivering timely reports that include detailed information about each positive sample detected through this method. This includes identifying specific serotypes of STEC identified along with the total count per gram or milliliter (CFU/g/mL). Such comprehensive data helps stakeholders make informed decisions regarding product safety and quality.
For those who wish to learn more about how our laboratory executes this procedure, we provide detailed documentation on our website. Our team comprises highly qualified professionals who are well-versed in performing these tests accurately and efficiently. With decades of experience behind us, we pride ourselves on maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and precision.
Applied Standards
| AOAC Official Method Code | Description |
|---|---|
| AOAC 2011.23 | Detection of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Other Serotypes (STEC) in Raw Beef, Leafy Greens, Sprouts, and Other Foods by Enrichment Culture Followed by ELISA Assay. |
| ISO 22000 | Food Safety Management Systems – Requirements for any Organization. |
| IEC 62794 | Microbiological Quality of Food Products – Sampling and Analysis Procedures. |
| ASTM E1803 | Standard Practice for Sampling Fresh Vegetables and Leafy Greens. |
The AOAC 2011.23 method forms part of a broader framework designed to ensure food safety compliance with international standards like ISO 22000, IEC 62794, and ASTM E1803. These guidelines provide additional context on sampling procedures and overall quality management systems that are integral when conducting tests such as AOAC 2011.23.
By aligning our practices with these recognized standards, we demonstrate commitment to delivering consistent, reliable results which contribute significantly towards maintaining public health and safety.
Eurolab Advantages
At Eurolab, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive microbiological testing services tailored specifically for the food and feed industry. Our team of experts utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and employs rigorous quality assurance protocols to ensure accurate and reproducible results.
- Accurate Results: Leveraging advanced technology ensures precise detection levels, enhancing confidence in our findings.
- Compliance Assurance: By adhering strictly to international standards such as AOAC 2011.23 and ISO 22000, we help clients meet regulatory requirements seamlessly.
- Speedy Turnaround Times: Efficient processes allow for quick delivery of results without compromising on accuracy or reliability.
- Expertise & Experience: Our staff consists of seasoned professionals who possess extensive knowledge in this field, ensuring that every aspect of the testing process is handled with care and precision.
We understand that time is money when it comes to product development or batch release decisions. That’s why Eurolab guarantees swift turnaround times without sacrificing quality. Our experienced team works diligently behind the scenes to provide timely reports, enabling our clients to make informed choices promptly.
Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just delivering accurate results; we also prioritize customer satisfaction by offering personalized support throughout the entire testing process. Whether you require routine screening or one-off confirmatory tests, rest assured that Eurolab will meet your specific needs effectively and efficiently.
Why Choose This Test
- Detection of High-Risk Pathogens: The AOAC 2011.23 method targets known high-risk pathogens like O157:H7, which can cause severe health issues.
- Precision & Accuracy: This technique offers unparalleled precision and accuracy, ensuring reliable detection even at low concentrations.
- Regulatory Compliance: By following internationally recognized protocols, this test helps clients comply with stringent food safety regulations globally.
- Efficient Testing: The streamlined approach allows for rapid identification of contaminated samples, facilitating quicker corrective actions if necessary.
- Cost-Effective: While maintaining high standards, the AOAC 2011.23 method provides excellent value for money compared to other testing options available in the market today.
- Comprehensive Reporting: Detailed reports provide insights into not only whether contamination was present but also which specific strains were detected along with their counts.
The combination of these factors makes AOAC 2011.23 an ideal choice for any organization looking to enhance its food safety protocols and ensure product integrity.
