Molecular Analyses
We conduct molecular analyses (using Real-time PCR) in water (drinking, supply samples, etc.), food (raw materials, prepared, frozen, cooked, fresh, etc.), wines, olive oils, animal feed, and other samples with an ultimate goal to detect and enumerate pathogens and other microorganisms and study the DNA of plant tissues.
Routine molecular determinations include:
- Detection and enumeration of Legionella spp. and Legionella pneumophila (by separating the living and dead cells) in water within 24 hours
- Detection of Salmonella spp. within 24 hours
- Detection of Listeria monocytogenes within 24 hours
- DNA screening of yeasts and differentiation of bacteria and microorganisms (e.g., Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, Oenococcus oeni, acetic bacteria, Zygosaccharomyces, Dekkera/Brettanomyces) that spoil wines
- Detection of DNA of bacteria that form biogenic amines in wines
- DNA detection and differentiation of “wild,” endogenous yeasts in wines
- Identification of authenticity of olive fruit varieties and olive oils
- Detection of allergens