POLYMERASE-CHAIN-REACTION FOR RAPID DETECTION OF CAMPYLOBACTER-JEJUNIIN ARTIFICIALLY CONTAMINATED FOODS

Campylobacter jejuni was inoculated into a range of raw and ready-to-e at foods. These food samples were used as a test source for detection of this bacterium by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Specific det ection of Camp. jejuni, as indicated by a PCR product of 159 bp, was p ossible with all pre-cooked deli-sliced and raw poultry products teste d. All vegetables tested were compatible with the PCR assay. Cantaloup e, kiwi and pineapple tested positive while strawberries, watermelon, grapes and apples tested negative. By using a nested PCR assay that yi elds a single band at 122 bp, positive results mere obtained with wate rmelon and grapes while the apple and strawberries continued to give a negative reaction. These rapid and specific assays for Camp. jejuni a re compatible with most foods in insuring the safety of the food produ ct.