| Synonym(s): |
Non-O157 Shiga-Toxin producing Escherichia coli. |
| Requisition Form |
G-22-(Food); G-23; MSA-FORM 50-1 |
| Test Description |
Food analysis method approved by USDA FSIS for the detection, isolation, and identification of “The Big Six” non-O157 STEC strains in Meat Samples and Environmental Swabs. |
| Pre-Approval Needed |
Regulatory or IDCU agent. |
| Supplemental Information Required |
N/A |
| Supplemental Form(s) |
N/A |
| Performed on Specimens from (sources) |
|
| Sample/Specimen Type for Testing |
- Food samples (ground meat, beef trim, carcass swab) samples
- Environmental swabs
|
| Minimum Volume/Size Required |
500 grams (1.1 pounds) of raw ground beef/Beef Trim. |
| Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping |
Food
- Place food sample in sterile zip-lock or whirlpack bag or other sterile plastic container.
- Specimen should be maintained at <15.0°C.
Environmental swabs
- Environmental swabs must be collected on appropriate swabs used for environmental testing (e.g., 3M™ Quick Swabs or Spongesicle type swabs or equivalent).
- Environmental swabs must be tested within 48 hours of collection.
|
| Transport Medium |
N/A |
| Specimen Labeling |
Sample Identification must match submission form. |
| Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements |
- Ship samples on Ice and/or Ice Packs.
- Samples must be shipped for overnight delivery.
- Ship according to Dangerous Good Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49.
|
| Method |
- BAX® Real-Time PCR Screen
- USDA FSIS culture method- Chapter 5B
|
| Turn-around Time |
14 Days |
| Interferences/Limitations |
- The sample should represent the outer surface as well as the interior of the food.
- This test only detects serogroups O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145 (a.k.a. “The Big Six”).
- Environmental swabs must be tested within 48 hours of collection.
|
| Common Causes for Rejection |
- Insufficient specimen
- Not collected by a Registered Sanitarian
- Incorrect swab used for collection.
- Improperly stored.
- Failure to meet shipping guidelines.
|
| Additional Information |
N/A |
