| abstract |
The invention provides methods for the rapid determination/detection of Salmonella in samples from sources such as processed and raw foods and feeds, the environment, body fluids and biopsies, etc. The methods comprise an enrichment step and a determination step. The enrichment procedure involves selective conditions, notably the use of the selective substances tetrathionate and/or novobiocin or an increase in culturing temperature to 39-43 °C, favouring the early detection of Salmonella. The selective conditions are instituted as early as possible in the enrichment, thereby allowing an early determination of high specificity and sensitivity. The determination involves a variety of assays which are all different from traditional agar plating techniques. Also provided are special enrichment procedures for Salmonella in processed products, i.e. products which have been heat-treated, dried, cured, acidified etc.. In general, determination/detection of Salmonella can be performed within 24 hours from the institution of enrichment. |