3M Molecular Detection System for rapid and specific foodborne pathogen detection

Food and beverage industry microbiology labs are under increasing pressure to provide accurate and timely results across an ever broadening range of pathogens. When meeting these challenges, laboratories must ensure that results are accurate and available in a shorter amount of time. Traditional agar methods are often unable to provide the type of information required by modern regulations or specifications.

3M Food Safety has developed a platform that combines two technologies - isothermal DNA amplification and bioluminescence detection to allow the rapid and specific detection of a range of foodborne pathogens.

The 3M Molecular Detection System uses isothermal DNA amplification to amplify the specific DNA sequences of target organisms and uniquely combines this with bioluminescence to provide real-time positive results.

Designed with simplicity in mind, the system uses a single sample preparation protocol across all assays and the colour coding of the software and reagent tubes facilitates an easier set-up, reducing the chance of operator error.

The system is claimed to offer significant bottom-line benefits to businesses through faster processing time, less staff training and reduced risk of human error.

Because bioluminescence provides real-time detection, positive results can be available in as little as 15 min. And the system is very accurate - DNA is amplified continuously, which limits the possible interference of the template or DNA polymerase by food sample inhibitors.

Isothermal DNA amplification proceeds at a constant temperature - which removes the need for complicated instrumentation. In fact, the instrumentation, which can process up to 96 tests in a single run, has a smaller footprint than a standard notebook computer. The instrument is also portable and robust, with no need for recalibration after transport and minimal maintenance requirements.

Numerous organisms can be tested in a single run, and it was designed to help users perform fewer repeat tests and make critical decisions faster.

Another feature is that all kits come with ready-to-use and pre-dispensed reagents that require no measuring, mixing or aliquoting.

The system is intended for use in all laboratories performing pathogen testing on food and beverage samples and has been verified across multiple food segments, including meat, poultry, fresh produce, dairy, seafood, water and processed foods.

3M has received third-party certifications against reference methods on all assays. These include AOAC PTM Certification and AFNOR Certification. The Salmonella assay has subsequently gained AOAC OMA status.