Detection and quantification of in foods: New analytic approaches to detect and quantify spp. in food samples.

The aim of the present study was to develop rapid qualitative and quantitative methods based on the use of Real-Time PCR and Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR), in order to have reliable techniques to detect and quantify spp. in food samples. The gene 16S-rRNA was used as specific target for spp. Real- Time PCR evaluation assay and a not competitive internal control was ushered in it. To investigate the selectivity of the method, 26 strains and 40 non- strains were tested and in order to verify the application of Real- Time PCR method, 5 pork meat samples were experimentally inoculated with a strain. Subsequently, dilutions with a bacterial load of within 10-10 CFU/mL were chosen for the optimization of the ddPCR assay. Lastly, a total of 54 naturally contaminated foods samples were analyzed through molecular (Real-Time PCR and ddPCR) and traditional methods. The Real-Time PCR protocol demonstrated to amplify only the spp. strains and when was experimentally inoculated in meat samples the pathogen was always detected. The ddPCRs assay allowed to quantify a level of contamination of 10 CFU/mL, but it was unable to quantify levels of 10 - 10 CFU/mL. Lastly, spp. was never detected in the 54 samples tested. In conclusion, the novel analytic approach proposed, based on an initial screening of the samples with Real-Time PCR and then on quantification of spp. with a ddPCR on those positive, represents a quick monitoring tool and, if used correctly, it would allow the implementation of food safety.