STEC Detection
using real time PCR
SpesLab is ISO/IEC 17025:2017 (SANAS) accredited for screening as well as confirmation of STEC's in food and food products.
SpesLab can identify the specific STEC present in the sample during confirmation. i.e. if screening is positive, we will be able to report during confirmation specifically which STEC serogroup is present: O157, O26, O45, O111, O103, O121 or O145.
More about STEC Detection
Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains are major foodborne pathogens capable of causing illness and possible death in people.
Escherichia coli O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, O145, and O157 (known as the Top 7 STEC's) are the predominant STEC serogroups implicated in outbreaks of human foodborne illness worldwide. The increasing prevalence of these pathogens has important public health implications.
It is therefore important to confirm the absence of this bacteria in food consumed by the public, as regulations are enforced to test food for O157 and other Top STEC’s before being cleared for release to the public.