Improved isolation of Escherichia coli O157 using large enrichment volumes for immunomagnetic separation

The recovery of low numbers of Escherichia coli O157 in foods by immunomagnetic separation (IMS) was improved, on average, ninefold by increasing the enrichment volume tested from 1 to 10 ml while maintaining the volume of immunobeads constant at 0.02 ml. Although 50 ml volumes also gave improved recoveries (approximately threefold), the 50 ml volume cannot be recommended until a suitable magnetic separation apparatus has been developed. By testing 10 ml volumes, the improved sensitivity of the IMS procedure will reduce false-negative E. coli O157 tests and help improve epidemiological studies of this pathogen.