Milk screening test launched

DuPont Qualicon has a new addition to its BAX system line of diagnostic tests - the BAX system PCR assay for detecting Enterobacter sakazakii​ in infant formula, dry dairy and soy ingredients.

According to a statement from the company, the US Food and Drug Administration has identified Enterobacter sakazakii​ as an emerging foodborne pathogen that can cause sepsis, meningitis, or necrotising enterocolitis in newborn infants, particularly premature infants or other infants with weakened immune systems.

The FDA reports that over the last several years, investigations of several outbreaks of Enterobacter sakazakii​ infection occurring in neonatal intensive care units worldwide suggest that the outbreak could be associated with milk-based powdered infant formulas. Since powdered formulas are not sterile products, they could contain opportunistic bacteria, such as Enterobacter sakazakii​, continues the report.

DuPont Qualicon​ collaborated with the Nestlé Research Centers in Switzerland and the United States to develop a PCR-based assay for rapid detection of Enterobacter sakazakii​ in food and environmental samples.

"We are focused on providing solutions that help safeguard consumers and that apply advanced innovative technology to help global food companies,"​ said Kevin Huttman, president of DuPont Qualicon.

Adding that the 'new technological breakthrough'​ could not have happened without the close strategic relationship and co-development efforts between Nestlé and DuPont.

On the market for nearly three years, the BAX system screening method that provides DNA-based detection of target bacteria in raw ingredients, finished food products and environmental samples.