Understanding Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli (STEC)

What is STEC?

Shiga Toxin-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli), commonly known as STEC, is a dangerous group of bacterial pathogens capable of causing severe foodborne illnesses. Certain STEC strains, particularly E. coli O157:H7, produce potent toxins that can lead to symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to life-threatening complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). These pathogens are a major concern for public health, food manufacturers, and regulatory agencies worldwide.

Why is STEC Testing Required?

Foodborne illnesses caused by STEC are responsible for outbreaks that can have severe health and economic consequences. Regulatory agencies such as Health Canada, the CFIA, and the USDA have stringent guidelines for food safety, requiring rigorous testing for pathogenic E. coli. Early and accurate detection of STEC in food products is crucial to:

• • Prevent foodborne outbreaks and protect public health.
• • Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
• • Reduce liability risks for food producers and manufacturers.
• • Maintain consumer confidence in food products.

How is STEC Testing Conducted?

At PBR Laboratories, we use qPCR (quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) technology to detect the presence of STEC in food and environmental samples. qPCR is a highly sensitive and rapid molecular method that targets specific genetic markers

By leveraging qPCR, we can provide:

• • Fast and accurate results
• • Reliable pathogen detection without the need for culture-based confirmation.
• • A cost-effective solution for food safety testing.

Industries Requiring STEC Testing

STEC contamination is a significant concern for industries handling high-risk food products, including:

• • Meat and Poultry Processing (Ground beef, deli meats, RTE products)
• • Dairy Production (Unpasteurized milk, cheese)
• • Fresh Produce Handling (Leafy greens, sprouts)
• • Water and Beverage Production (Bottled water, unpasteurized juices)
• • Animal Feed and Pet Food Manufacturing
• • Cannabis and Herbal Products (Dried cannabis, infused edibles)

Why Choose PBR Laboratories for STEC Testing?

PBR Laboratories is committed to providing high-quality, accredited food safety testing using state-of-the-art molecular diagnostics.

Our STEC qPCR testing offers:

• ✔Rapid turnaround times
• ✔Regulatory compliance with CFIA, Health Canada, and USDA standards
• ✔Comprehensive pathogen detection
• ✔Comprehensive pathogen detection

Schedule Your Testing Today!

Protect your consumers and business from foodborne risks. Contact PBR Laboratories today to discuss your STEC testing needs.

Email: pbr@pbr.ca

Phone: 1-780-450-3957

Protect your consumers and business from foodborne risks. Contact PBR Laboratories today to discuss your STEC testing needs.

Choose PBR, Because Precision Matters! Defining Excellence in Laboratory Services Since 1984