Discipline A: Microbiology Analytical Track 2 Human Food Testing

Microbiology Track 2 - Human Food Testing Project Summary/Abstract: Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) Food Microbiology Lab is the primary laboratory for regulatory human food testing for the State of Indiana. We are an ISO 17025:2005 accredited lab analyzing a variety of human food types to detect the three main foodborne illness causing bacteria- Salmonella spp., Listeria spp., and shiga toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7 and non-O157. Microbiological testing covered under this track includes 200 bags of lettuce for shiga toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7 and non-O157, approximately 25 ice cream containers for Salmonella spp. and Listeria spp., and approximately 25 cheeses for Salmonella spp. and Listeria spp. Testing performed will follow FDA BAM and AOAC methodology. We plan to work with FDA to generate analysis records that meet quality and documentation requirements to allow for FDA acceptance of these results. ISDH Labs will also meet the quality management system requirements to maintain accreditation throughout the grant project period. ISDH Food Microbiology Lab will continue participating in FERN activities, grant required meetings, and reporting food results to the FDA via ORAPP and/or NFSDX.