USDA/FSIS Updates Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook (MLG) with Improved Workflow for Campylobacter Enrichment Using Hunt Broth
Though Campylobacter is the most common cause of foodborne illness, recovery of this pathogen from raw chicken is challenging. A recent study conducted by the UK Health Security Agency suggests that even under controlled conditions, laboratories performing Campylobacter testing are likely to record inconsistent performance results. In this study, the UKHSA was able to clearly demonstrate that recovery of this fastidious organism can be improved with specialized guidance.
Striving to reduce foodborne illness cases from Campylobacter, The Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) has updated its guidance in the Modern Laboratory Handbook (MLG) with an improved selective enrichment: Hunt Broth. In the latest MLG 41 revision, Hunt Broth replaced Double-Strength Blood-free Bolton Broth as the preferred enrichment broth for the recovery of Campylobacter from poultry samples. The use of Hunt Broth was determined to significantly reduce the time to result by 24 hours.
Unfortunately, the preparation of Hunt Broth can be a challenge of its own. This highly selective formula requires not only a dehydrated culture media base, but also the addition of lysed horse blood and a supplement of several potent antibiotics.
At Hardy Diagnostics, we specialize in the preparation of complex culture media formulations. In our continuing commitment to support our laboratory partners, Hardy Diagnostics has developed the first fully-prepared formulation of Hunt Broth. This ready-to-use solution enables those on the front lines of food protection to effortlessly incorporate the usage of Hunt Broth into their Campylobacter screening protocol, thus improving their workflow and ensuring safer food for all our families.
Hunt Broth, for Campylobacter, 30ml
For the selective enrichment of Campylobacter jejuni, C. coli, and C. lari from poultry rinsate, poultry carcass sponge samples, raw poultry product samples, and/or environmental sponge samples per USDA FSIS MGL 41
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Written by Mark Pruett
Food and Beverage Product Manager, Hardy Diagnostics
