Validation of the AtlasTMCampylobacter Detection Assay: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 032101

Abstract Background Campylobacter spp. are a major causal agent for diarrheal illness in humans. Detection of Campylobacter spp. in food is critical to reduce foodborne illness, and to provide safe foods. Objective The aim was to evaluate the Atlas Campylobacter Detection Assay for AOAC Performance Tested MethodsSM certification for detecting C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. lari in foods after 12 h enrichment. Method The Atlas Campylobacter Detection Assay was compared to the ISO 10272–1:2017 reference culture method for chicken carcass rinse, turkey carcass sponge, raw ground poultry, raw ground pork, and ready-to-eat (RTE) meats. Inclusivity, exclusivity, product consistency, product stability, and robustness studies were also performed. An independent laboratory evaluated the performance of the Atlas Campylobacter Detection Assay method on chicken carcass rinse. Results No significant differences were observed between the Atlas Campylobacter Detection Assay and the reference ISO method in spiked food matrixes. The Atlas Campylobacter Detection Assay detected all 50 inclusive organisms and none of the 30 exclusive organisms. Product consistency and stability studies showed no statistical differences between lots or over the term of the shelf-life using accelerated method study. Finally, the robustness study showed no statistical difference between different sample volumes, enrichment times, and storage time after sample transfer. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that the Atlas Campylobacter Detection Assay is comparable to ISO 10272–1:2017 for detecting Campylobacter in chicken carcass rinse, turkey carcass sponge, raw ground poultry, raw ground pork, and RTE meats. Highlights The Atlas Campylobacter Detection Assay is a rapid, accurate molecular method able to detect C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. lari in in chicken carcass rinse, turkey carcass sponge, raw ground poultry, raw ground pork, and RTE meats within 12–18 h.