Microbiological

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Ensuring food is safe from microbiological contamination is a priority and a legislative requirement at all stages of the food chain.

ALS now has a full-service food testing laboratory in the United States. ALS works with companies to conduct microbiological and chemistry testing.  Food testing is required to obtain a certificate of analysis for ready to eat and raw products at certain stages of processing.  Customers are provided analyses to meet requirements for Food Process Evaluation.

Our A2LA Accreditation to ISO 17025:2005 helps assure compliance with USDA FSIS, HACCP, US FDA FSMA, and other regulatory requirements. To search for a specific test you may view our food testing menu or contact us to inquire.  Food testing technologies are listed below.

Services include, but are not limited to:

Microbiology

  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Pathogen Detection
  • Quantitative Microbiology
  • Microbial Identification
  • Quality System Audits
  • Check Sample Programs
  • Other Process Control Parameter Measurements

Molecular Pathogen Detection

Polymerase chain-reaction (PCR) and other molecular based technologies identify major pathogens like E.coli 0157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella and Campylobacter by detecting the organism's DNA or RNA. These extremely rapid and accurate testing technologies can detect as few as one bacterial organism per sample in as little as eight hours. Molecular methods can offer faster results than standard tests commonly used in the food testing industry. Rapid product testing for the major food pathogens using the technologies allow faster product release and help ensure a safe food supply.

ELFA/ELISA

Enzyme-Linked Fluorescent Assay (ELFA) and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbant Assay (ELISA) both identify pathogens by detecting the proteins on their cell surface. Although not as rapid as molecular, this technology is currently less expensive and widely used in the food industry.

Culture

Bacteria from food sources are grown on agarose plates and visually examined for both pathogenic and nonpathogenic species. This is the time-tested method of detection. This method allows organisms to be isolated for identification and/or quantified.

Shelf-Life Verification

Shelf-life Verification allows clients to establish and verify shelf life claims on packaging and maximize stability of products. Microorganism Identification aids identification of spoilage organisms so interventions can be implemented to reduce or eliminate them.