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Update on validation of microbiological methods by AOAC International
1U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Division of Microbiological Studies, Washington, DC 20204.
Journal of AOAC International
|July 1, 1994
Summary
This review details microbiological methods validated by AOAC International since 1983, focusing on Salmonella, coliforms, and Escherichia coli detection. It highlights the increased use of test kits and expanded applicability of approved methods in food matrices.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Food Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- AOAC International has validated numerous microbiological methods since 1983.
- Official Methods of Analysis (15th Edition) introduced new numbering for methods adopted between 1939 and 1993.
- Method validation is crucial for ensuring accuracy and reliability in food safety testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an update on microbiological methods validated by AOAC International.
- To detail the evolution and expanded applicability of these methods.
- To discuss the increasing trend in test kit validation and modification.
Main Methods:
- Review of AOAC validation records and publications.
- Sequential listing and analysis of adopted microbiological methods.
- Categorization of methods based on target organisms and food matrices.
Main Results:
- Significant increase in methods for Salmonella spp. detection, identification, and serological testing.
- Frequent approval of coliform and Escherichia coli procedures between 1973 and 1993.
- Expanded applicability of validated methods across diverse food matrices.
- Substantial rise in the validation of microbiological test kits.
Conclusions:
- AOAC validation has evolved to encompass a wider range of microbiological targets and food types.
- Test kit validation represents a significant advancement in rapid and reliable food safety testing.
- The data provides a historical overview and current trends in microbiological method validation.