Neogen Corp. announced that it has developed a test that detects listeria in environmental samples in fewer than 60 minutes and without the need to enrich samples.

Neogen's new Listeria Right Now test system can detect all species of listeria, including the pathogenic Listeria monocytogenes, in under 60 minutes through their ribosomal RNA (rRNA). The system has been validated by NSF International for its effectiveness in detecting low levels of listeria in environmental samples with greater sensitivity and speed, the announcement said. The test is also under review for AOAC Performance Tested certification to further validate its accuracy.

The innovative Listeria Right Now process starts with taking an environmental sample to capture any listeria present. The entire swab sample is placed in a tube that contains a lysis buffer that breaks up any bacteria present and releases its rRNA. If listeria is in the sample, the test's reagents will amplify thousands of copies of its rRNA and make the listeria easily detectable by Listeria Right Now.

"The advanced technology in Listeria Right Now truly changes everything about testing the environment for listeria. Contamination of listeria in the environment can now be determined -- and cleaned, as necessary -- before food production begins and the quality and safety of a food product is compromised," Ed Bradley, Neogen vice president of food safety, said. "The new test system enables food safety professionals to very quickly implement corrective actions, which could include improving sanitation efforts or processes. Using Listeria Right Now also means that companies no longer have to grow potentially dangerous cultures in their facilities during the testing process nor store test cultures for potential follow-up testing."

Neogen develops and markets products dedicated to food and animal safety. The Food Safety Division markets dehydrated culture media and diagnostic test kits to detect foodborne bacteria, natural toxins, food allergens, drug residues, plant diseases and sanitation concerns. Its Animal Safety Division develops animal genomics and manufactures and distributes a variety of animal health care products, including diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, veterinary instruments, wound care and disinfectants.