Unlike other slow, traditional culture tests, Idaho Technology's method of detection can be used to confirm the presence of E coli O157 in about three hours
Idaho Technology, a molecular biology instrumentation and reagents business in Salt Lake City, Utah, has developed a freeze-dried assay kit to detect E coli O157, which has recently been found in fresh-bagged spinach.
Along with this detection kit, it has also developed the IT 1-2-3 Flow sample purification kit, a DNA extraction kit that allows trained laboratory technicians to extract and purify suspicious E coli DNA from spinach, meat, and other samples.
These two kits join Idaho Technology's growing portfolio of freeze-dried detection and DNA extraction kits used in conjunction with the company's Ruggedised Advanced Pathogen Identification Device (Rapid), Rapid LT, and Razor instruments.
These kits and instruments are used by military organisations, health agencies, food safety labs, and first responder teams around the world for on-the-spot analysis of dangerous biological pathogens.
Todd Ritter, chief corporate development officer, said: "Idaho Technology continues to add capability to its existing systems making our food processors, health agencies, military and first responder customers better prepared to do their important work.
"Our kits will allow everyone from health officials to food producers to test their products and ensure they are delivering safe products."
