Enterobacteriaceae assay

Enterobacteriaceae constitute a large family of bacteria encompassing pathogenic species (such as Salmonella , Escherichia coli , and Shigella ) as well as indicator bacteria of fecal or environmental contamination. Their presence in food products, plant extracts, or supplements is a critical indicator of microbiological quality and food safety. Enterobacteriaceae testing allows for monitoring product regulatory compliance and protecting consumer health.

Analytical methods for the quantification of enterobacteria

Enterobacteriaceae control relies on several complementary microbiological approaches:

• Enumeration on VRBG (Violet Red Bile Glucose Agar) specific medium : reference method for isolating and quantifying enterobacterial 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) : offers a complete characterization of the microbial community, useful for the research and identification of emerging strains.

These methods are comparable to the 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 processing 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 microbiomes, study of cross-contamination and development of new microbiological control solutions.

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

Matrices analyzed for enterobacteria

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

Issues related to microbiological safety and compliance

Controlling enterobacteria is a key element of food safety. Measuring their levels allows for: detecting fecal or environmental contamination, preventing the risk of food poisoning, complying with current standards (Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005 on microbiological criteria for foodstuffs), and strengthening the traceability and quality of marketed products. These controls are part of a comprehensive microbiological control approach, similar to the analysis of iron-reducing bacteria or the characterization of the microbiota by NGS sequencing.

YesWeLab's expertise in enterobacteria analysis

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

Take action

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