Rapid and specific detection of viable Escherichia coli O157:H7 cells in ready-to-eat (RTE) meat products, by
duplex quantitative PCR (qPCR) procedures with mRNA and SYBR Green and TaqMan methodologies were
developed. Specific primers and probes were designed based on the serotype of E. coli O157:H7, fliCh7 and rfbE
genes. No cross-reactivity with other microorganisms was observed. The detection limit of the assays was 101
or 102CFU/g for artificially contaminated meat products, and after a 4h enrichment period at 37°C, the detection
limit decreased to about 1 CF
U/g. Time-to completion of the assay was approximately 8 h. Thus, these qPCR methods offer a useful, rapid and
efficient tool for screening viable E. coli O157:H7 in RTE meat products. This tool could also be proposed for
monitoring these foodborne pathogens in HACCP programs.