CERTUS, Salt Lake City, Utah, revealed that its in-house pathogen testing system now delivers swab-to-result in as little as eight hours.

The CERTUS System is backed by a comprehensive series of tests and assay optimizations, and provides food producers with an alternative to third-party testing.

Utilizing SERS nanoparticle technology, the CERTUS System features real-time detection that produces timely information.

As part of its path to AOAC validation, the CERTUS System underwent an intensive battery of performance-based tests proving detection of Listeria species at 10⁴ cfu during a standard work shift. Results showed that one cfu of Listeria-monocytogenes can be detected in as little as 18 hours from swab to result. In addition, tests demonstrated the ability to detect Listeria in produce wash samples known to have high bioburden. With a range of matrices that includes stainless steel, ceramic, plastic, and concrete sample sites, the CERTUS system provides 98% accuracy. 

The all in-house CERTUS System is comprised of the detection unit, consumable detection kits featuring Bio-Lock sampling swabs and the control pad, which includes complimentary facility management software that enables plant test scheduling, test site result mapping, instant notifications and remediation management.