Enterobacteriaceae assay

Enterobacteriaceae are a large family of bacteria that includes pathogenic species (such as Salmonella , Escherichia coli , Shigella ) as well as bacteria that indicate fecal or environmental contamination. Their presence in foodstuffs, plant extracts or supplements is a critical indicator of microbiological quality and food safety. The measurement of enterobacteriaceae makes it possible to monitor the regulatory compliance of products and protect consumer health.

Analytical methods for the determination of enterobacteria

The control of enterobacteria is based on several complementary microbiological approaches:

• Enumeration on specific VRBG (Violet Red Bile Glucose Agar) medium : reference method for isolating and quantifying enterobacteria colonies after incubation.
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) : allows rapid and sensitive detection of specific pathogenic bacteria within the Enterobacteriaceae family.
• DNA sequencing (NGS – Next Generation Sequencing) : provides a complete characterization of the microbial community, useful for research and identification of emerging strains.

These methods are comparable to approaches used for other microbiological analyses, such as the enumeration of mesophilic aerobic bacteria or targeted detection by PCR.

Industrial and regulatory applications

Enterobacteriaceae testing is essential in many sectors:

• Food industry : quality control of foodstuffs (dairy products, meats, fruits, vegetables, processed products).
• Nutraceuticals : verification of the safety of plant extracts and food supplements.
• Animal nutrition : control of microbiological contamination in raw materials and formulations intended for animals.
• Research and R&D : monitoring of microbiotas, study of cross-contamination and development of new microbiological control solutions.

This type of analysis complements regulatory tests for specific pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes or Salmonella spp .

Matrices analyzed for enterobacteria

YesWeLab's partner laboratories perform Enterobacteriaceae assays on a wide range of matrices: finished food products (milk, juices, meats, fermented products), plant extracts and powders, food supplements in various forms (capsules, tablets, solutions), animal feed, and agricultural raw materials. Each matrix requires appropriate preparation to ensure reliable results and meet regulatory requirements.

Microbiological Safety and Compliance Issues

Enterobacteriaceae control is a central element of food safety. Their measurement makes it possible to: detect fecal or environmental contamination, prevent the risk of food poisoning, comply with current standards (EC Regulation No. 2073/2005 on microbiological criteria applicable to foodstuffs), and strengthen the traceability and quality of marketed products. These controls are part of a comprehensive approach to microbiological control, similar to the analysis of iron-reducing bacteria or the characterization of the microbiota by NGS sequencing.

YesWeLab's expertise in the analysis of enterobacteria

YesWeLab relies on a network of more than 200 partner laboratories in France and Europe, selected for their microbiology expertise and accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.). Each request is processed according to specific matrices and needs: routine enumeration, targeted PCR detection, in-depth analyses by sequencing. Our digital platform simplifies your procedures: online quote request, real-time tracking of your samples and receipt of results within the agreed deadlines. Since 2020, many manufacturers, distributors and design offices have entrusted us with the management of their microbiological analyses to secure their products.

Take action

Do you want to ensure the safety of your food products, plant extracts, or supplements? Entrust your samples to YesWeLab for reliable and compliant Enterobacteriaceae testing. Request a quote online now for your microbiological analyses.