Alden, a multinational biotechnology company headquartered in Missouri, has unveiled a groundbreaking and innovative solution for microbe testing that is poised to revolutionise the food safety and quality testing sector. The Alden S1 for E. coli O157 is a suspended simultaneous sandwich assay (SSSA) that has achieved certification from the AOAC RI PTM, thus positioning it as a game-changer in the field of food safety.
Conventional testing methods for the detection of pathogens such as E. coli typically require several days to yield results, leading to time-consuming processes and potential safety implications for meat and poultry products. However, Alden’s novel bead-based testing method significantly reduces the time-to-result from several days to a few hours, resulting in time and cost savings for customers while enhancing overall operations efficiency.
Independent laboratory studies have indicated that the Alden platform performs “as well as or better” than the widely used PCR testing. This represents a significant milestone for the food and agriculture supply chain, as it provides industry professionals with more effective tools for managing and mitigating risks within their operations.
The AOAC Research Institute has recently certified Alden’s S1 for E. coli O157 testing method, affirming its effectiveness in detecting E. coli O157 (including H7) in ground beef and beef trim. This certification serves as a testament to the reliability and efficacy of Alden’s testing technology, offering meat processors and consumers much-needed reassurance regarding the safety of their products.
In addition to E. coli, Alden is in the process of validating several other microbe tests, including Listeria, Salmonella, and Campylobacter. This comprehensive approach to microbe testing underscores Alden’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of food safety and quality across all areas of operation.
Unlike legacy testing systems such as PCR and ELISA, Alden’s SSSA technology presents zero risks to personnel, products, and equipment within a production environment. This makes it a safe and dependable solution for businesses operating in the food industry.
Alden’s innovative testing technology is available through both offsite laboratory testing and a cost-effective, highly portable onsite testing solution. Customers have access to an online platform that digitizes results and provides transparency into every step of the testing workflow, empowering businesses to ensure operational continuity and maintain product safety.
With these advancements in food safety testing, Alden is leading the way toward a safer, healthier world by modernising the way we test for harmful microbes in the food supply. Their dedication to innovation and excellence in microbe testing solutions is truly laudable and establishes a new gold standard for the industry. For more information about Alden’s pioneering technology, please visit alden.tech/discover or visit their booth at the IAFP 2024 Annual Meeting.
Alden’s microbe testing solutions are accredited by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), validated by MRI Global, and supported through grants from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Their commitment to upholding the highest standards of testing and validation further cements their position as a leader in the field of food safety testing.
In conclusion, Alden’s groundbreaking technology in microbe testing represents a significant advancement for the food industry. Their innovative approach, commitment to safety, and dedication to excellence have set a new standard for food safety and quality testing. As they continue to expand their range of validated microbe tests, Alden is leading the way towards a safer and healthier future for consumers and businesses alike.