3M STEC Tests
3M has introduced two genetic assays for food safety testing that detect Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. The assays are compatible with the St. Paul, Minnesota-based firm's loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) instrument, the 3M Molecular Detection System.
The 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2 - STEC Gene Screen (stx and eae) detects the genes for Shiga toxin types 1 and 2, in addition to the intimin gene that allows the bacteria to attach to intestinal cells. The firm's 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2 - STEC Gene Screen (stx) specifically detects Shiga toxin genes.