Available from exclusive UK distributors Don Whitley Scientific, Warnex has launched a new test for Campylobacter in poultry rinses for use with its Genevision™ Rapid Pathogen Detection System. Together accounting for 99% of reported cases, Campylobacter jejuni, C. coli and C. lari species can be detected within 48 hours using real-time PCR technology, as opposed the five to seven days required by traditional testing methods.

Campylobacter is the most commonly identified cause of foodborne disease in the UK, and is found mainly in poultry, red meat, unpasteurised milk and untreated water. Although unable to grow in food, it spreads easily requiring only a few bacteria to cause illness. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is working with the food industry to halve the number of UK-produced chickens that test positive for campylobacter by 2010. A consultation document has recently been published in order to establish criteria for monitoring progress towards this target.

"As Campylobacter continues to emerge as a serious pathogen threatening the safety of food, particularly poultry, and water, more companies are beginning to screen for it as part of their regular quality assurance practices," said Mark Busgang, President and CEO of Warnex. "Adding new tests to our portfolio is an important aspect of our growth strategy as it allows us to both leverage our existing installed base to drive additional reagent revenue as well as attract new customers with a more comprehensive food safety solution."