Evaluation of PMA‐qPCR methodology to detect and quantify viable Shiga toxin‐producing <i>Escherichia coli</i> in beef burgers

Propidium monoazide (PMA) is a selective nucleic acid intercalating dye that can be combined with real-time PCR (qPCR) in order to evaluate cell viability food samples. The aim of the present work was PMA-qPCR detect and quantify viable STEC cells beef burgers using stx2 as target gene. First, it determined 100 µM PMA could inhibit qPCR signal from non-viable had no influence on amplification different concentrations cells. Then, shown efficiently distinguished between log cfu presence high concentration cells, both culture burger homogenates. Finally, distinguish within same effectively detected quantified Novelty impact statement main achievement this we demonstrate not only detect, but also targeting gene, even complex matrix burgers. This methodology used assess effectiveness antimicrobial treatments reduce contamination meat products more rapidly less pathogenic residues than conventional methods.