Co-chaired by Danièle Sohier, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Catharine Carlin, Mérieux NutriSciences, the AOAC Expert Review Panel (ERP) for Microbiology Methods for Food and Environmental Surfaces approved on April 16, 2024, a modification to AOAC Official MethodSM 2005.04 for E. coli. In addition, AOAC Official MethodSM 2003.08 for Staphylococcus aureus was recommended for Final Action status.
Each method was thoroughly evaluated by members of the ERP. Based on its collective expertise, the ERP reached consensus that the methods meet the performance, scope, and applicability claims of the method authors/developers in accordance with AOAC guidelines.
The Assurance® GDS for E. coli O157:H7 Tq method is a gene-based assay that uses specific primers and proprietary probes directed against a highly conserved DNA sequence in the target organism. The method is applicable to detection of E. coli O157:H7 in raw ground beef, beef trim, finely textured beef, carcass cloths, orange juice, apple juice, fresh vegetables, green onions, and sprout process water.
The approved modification of Official MethodSM 2005.04, submitted by MilliporeSigma, extends the scope to include automated systems and a smaller amplification tube.
In general, the ERP agreed that the data is good, and the modifications are well written and straightforward, with detailed information.
Official MethodSM 2003.08 Enumeration of Staphyloccocus aureus in Selected Dairy Foods by Neogen® Petrifilm® Staph Express Count Plate Method is applicable to the enumeration of S. aureus in ice cream, raw milk, yogurt, whey powder, and cheese. The Petrifilm Staph Express Count Plate is a sample-ready culture medium system, which contains a cold-water-soluble gelling agent.
Demonstrated method reproducibility and user feedback on method performance are among ERP requirements to recommend methods for Final Action status. The ERP reached consensus that the method is fit-for-purpose and continues to perform as expected.
The approved modification will be published in the Official Methods of Analysis print and online products.
Methods recommended for Final Action status are reviewed for possible adoption by the AOAC Official Methods Board. If adopted, Final Action methods are published by AOAC.
The next meeting of the ERP for Microbiology Methods for Food and Environmental Surfaces is scheduled for July 23, 2024.
