The new 3M Petrifilm Reader Advanced is a small peripheral device containing a five-megapixel camera and bar code reader that uses artificial intelligence networks to enumerate 3M Petrifilm Plates – 3M’s proprietary indicator test system.
Plates are inserted into the device, with imaging and information automatically displaying on a USB-connected computer in six seconds or less, according to 3M.
Versatile testing
The device can enumerate 10 3M Petrifilm Plates and the Staph Express Disk and includes software that allows technicians add relevant sample information.
3M also debuted its new Environmental Scrub Sampler, an environmental microbial sampling device used to collect samples from within food processing environments.
Designed to work with downstream detection methods, the sampler contains acrylic scrub dot technology to quickly and effectively disrupt biofilm and enhance sample collection.
Available with or without a stick, the Environmental Scrub Sampler is hydrated with the proprietary Wide Spectrum Neutralizer for effective neutralization of sanitizers commonly used in the food industry.
Maximising resources
Elliott Zell, 3M Food Safety global new product marketing manager, said: “Food safety is always a top concern globally, but challenges related to COVID-19 have put additional pressure on organizations to maximize resources.
“3M is in a unique position to help the food and beverage industry maximize the efficiency of the critical tests it manages each day, and we have invested in advanced hardware and software to help labs reduce tedious tasks in favour of strategic activities.”
Meanwhile, Campden BRI has developed a new visual tool to help food and drink manufacturers communicate and manage risk within their businesses and boost food safety culture.
The tool, known as Bowtie, presents relevant information in a simple diagram that resembles a bow tie. According to Campden BRI, the tool can ensure plans are clear and easily understandable by staff at all levels.