Bio-Rad’s dd-Check STEC Solution receives AOAC approval for enhanced food safety testing

U.S – Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., a renowned provider of life science research and clinical diagnostics solutions, has received approval for its dd-Check STEC Solution from AOAC International.

This approval marks a revolutionary development in detecting and confirming virulence genes from Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) in various food samples, including raw beef trim, fresh spinach, and carcass sampling cloths.

The dd-Check STEC Solution is hailed as the first Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) method to receive AOAC approval.

This method employs ddPCR technology to generate uniform nanoliter-sized droplets that are analyzed for the presence of specific virulence genes, ensuring accurate differentiation between true positive and false positive samples.

Brad Stawick, Senior Director of AOAC Research Institute, emphasized the importance of method validation through the Performance Tested Method Program, underscoring the rigorous evaluation process to confirm the fitness and efficacy of testing kits like Bio-Rad’s dd-Check STEC Solution.

The approval of the dd-Check STEC Solution for confirmation of STEC virulence genes signifies its comparability to standard reference methods, highlighting its reliability and accuracy in food safety testing.

This development holds immense value for the food industry, ensuring enhanced measures for detecting and preventing potential risks associated with STEC contamination.

Simon May, EVP and President of Bio-Rad’s Life Science Group, expressed pride in the company’s dedication to delivering innovative solutions for food safety testing.

“The dd-Check STEC assay demonstrates Bio-Rad’s dedication to delivering innovative solutions for food safety testing. The rigorous and thorough standards set by AOAC validation align with our aim to provide top-tier products for our customers, and we’re proud to be playing a role in driving the transformation of STEC testing,” he said.

Based in Hercules, California, Bio-Rad operates a global network of research, development, manufacturing, and sales operations with over 8,000 employees and U.S$2.7 billion in revenues in 2023.

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