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Non-O157 STEC

Laboratory Fee Schedule

Procedure:  MAQ0120A

CPT: N/A

Synonym(s): Non-O157 Shiga-Toxin producing Escherichia coli.
Requisition Form G-22-(Food); G-23; MSA-FORM 50-1
Test Description Food analysis method approved by USDA FSIS for the detection, isolation, and identification of “The Big Six” non-O157 STEC strains in Meat Samples and Environmental Swabs.
Pre-Approval Needed Regulatory or IDCU agent.
Supplemental Information Required N/A
Supplemental Form(s) N/A  
Performed on Specimens from (sources)
  • Food
  • Environmental 
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing
  • Food samples (ground meat, beef trim, carcass swab) samples
  • Environmental swabs
Minimum Volume/Size Required 500 grams (1.1 pounds) of raw ground beef/Beef Trim.
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping

Food

  • Place food sample in sterile zip-lock or whirlpack bag or other sterile plastic container.
  • Specimen should be maintained at <15.0°C.
 Environmental swabs
  • Environmental swabs must be collected on appropriate swabs used for environmental testing (e.g., 3M™ Quick Swabs or Spongesicle type swabs or equivalent).
  • Environmental swabs must be tested within 48 hours of collection.
Transport Medium N/A
Specimen Labeling Sample Identification must match submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements
  • Ship samples on Ice and/or Ice Packs.
  • Samples must be shipped for overnight delivery.
  • Ship according to Dangerous Good Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49.
Method
  • BAX® Real-Time PCR Screen
  • USDA FSIS culture method- Chapter 5B
Turn-around Time 14 Days
Interferences/Limitations
  • The sample should represent the outer surface as well as the interior of the food.
  • This test only detects serogroups O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145 (a.k.a. “The Big Six”).
  • Environmental swabs must be tested within 48 hours of collection.
Common Causes for Rejection
  • Insufficient specimen
  • Not collected by a Registered Sanitarian
  • Incorrect swab used for collection.
  • Improperly stored.
  • Failure to meet shipping guidelines.
Additional Information N/A