3M launches test to monitor lactic acid bacteria in food

3M Food Safety has introduced a new test to monitor lactic acid bacteria in food and environmental samples.

The Aerobic Procedure for Lactic Acid Bacteria works by integrating a combination of the 3M Petrifilm Aerobic Count Plate, a pH indicator and MRS (deMan, Rogosa and Sharpe) media.

According to the company, the test was created in cooperation with Kraft Foods to monitor shelf-life and environmental samples in food products, such as raw and ready-to-eat (RTE) meats.

The use of this procedure was recently approved for internal validation by Kraft Foods, and 3M Food Safety is now releasing the method to global food manufacturers.

3M Food Safety senior technical specialist Bob Young said that this new procedure will be a great tool for companies wanting to assess quality and ensure product consistency and a longer shelf-life.

"This collaboration is also a great illustration of 3M’s commitment to working hand in hand with our clients to find solutions that help them achieve their goals," Young said.

While lactic acid bacteria typically do not cause illness if ingested, they can change the colour and flavour of food products.