Methods And Certifications

DonLevy Laboratories performs microbiological testing on samples submitted by food processors from many segments of the food industry. Environmental samples, raw materials and finished products are tested in accordance with established methodologies. Testing is performed by recognized methodologies, including the AOAC, Compendium of Methods for the Microbiological Examination of Foods (CMMEF), the FDA/BAM, Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, the USDA/FSIS, and the USP.

DNA Hybridization is one of the rapid methods used by DonLevy Laboratories for Salmonella and Listeria analysis. These rapid methods have achieved Performance Tested Status through the AOAC Research Institute, and are designed to provide confirmed negative results for Salmonella and Listeria in 48 hours. Conventional confirmation techniques are employed to confirm presumptive positive DNA Hybridization results. DonLevy Laboratories also offers the DuPont Qualicon BAX detection system. The BAX System is also a DNA method, which identifies Salmonella and Listeria at the genetic level. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifies targeted DNA in the BAX System.

DonLevy Laboratories has participated in the AOAC microbiology laboratory proficiency program since October 1998 and has consistently performed well within the acceptance ranges. As a participant in this established program, eight mashed potato samples are received each quarter. Four of these samples are analyzed for the presence of pathogens; Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli O157. The other four samples are tested for aerobic plate count, yeast and mold, coliform (MPN and VRB), E. coli (MPN and VRB), and coagulase positive Staphylococcus (plate count method only). A quarterly report is issued with our laboratory’s results compared to other participants in the program. The quarterly results of this check sample program are available upon request.

DonLevy Laboratories currently holds approved microbiology laboratory status from numerous Fortune 500 companies. The USDA Agriculture Marketing Service has accepted DonLevy Laboratories as a certified laboratory in the Approved Laboratory Program for Microbiological Testing of Frozen Cooked Diced Chicken for School Lunch and other Domestic Food Assistance Programs. DonLevy Laboratories is also presently in the process of pursuing ISO 17025 accreditation.