Enumeration by DNA colony hybridization of virulent Yersinia enterocolitica colonies in artificially contaminated food.

A genetic probe was used to identify and enumerate virulent Yersinia enterocolitica colonies in 11 artificially contaminated foods. Efficiency of enumeration, determined by autoradiography after DNA colony hybridization, ranged from 66 to 100% (average, 86%) and was influenced by the number of indigenous bacteria. The use of nitrocellulose filters and agar medium had little effect on efficiency of enumeration.