MULTIPLEX PCR ASSAY FOR THE ROUTINE DETECTION OF LISTERIA IN FOOD

The development and validation of a multiplex PCR assay for the detect ion of Listeria that can be employed in routine investigation of food samples are described. The assay, which employs a short culture enrich ment step followed by isolation of bacterial cells and detection by mu ltiplex PCR reaction, is highly sensitive and specific for the detecti on of Listeria monocytogenes and all other Listeria species. Over 350 food samples were tested in parallel by standard cultural procedures a nd the PCR assay, with no false-positive or false-negative results obt ained with the PCR assay. Compared to the standard cultural methods th e PCR assay is highly sensitive, cost effective and extremely rapid wi th results obtained within 48 h from sample receipt.