Single specimen request for Meat Enrichment broth
Most E. coli are harmless and are actually an important part of a healthy human intestinal tract. However some E. coli are harmful. The Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) cause disease by producing a toxin, the most common serotype being E. coli O157. This was classified as an adulterant in beef products under US Federal Meat Inspection Act. Six additional STEC serotypes were then prohibited and are referred to as the "Top 6" (i.e. O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145), creating a “Top 7” group of adulterants. Use this form to request the international reference level confirmation and characterisation for the pathogenic group known as the "Top 7" E. coli groups
To submit samples for O157, Super 6 & 7 testing, please follow the guidelines below:
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The following vials from Thermo Fisher Scientific are strongly recommended to avoid samples leaking and to ensure the safety of staff handling the samples: 30 ml PC (Poly-carbonate) flat base, Natural screw cap, cat# LBS3688.
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Please make sure that the samples are clearly labelled and if necessary seal the lid with parafilm (not sellotape).
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We require a minimum of 10 ml for Super 6/7 testing.
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If leaking vials are delivered to ESR, we will NOT be able to process them, as this exposes our staff to an unacceptable health and safety risk.
During the Bobby calf season weekly testing reports for clients are published on this secure site.