Adenylate kinase amplification of ATP bioluminescence for hygiene monitoring in the food and beverage industry

Fourteen food residues, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus on stainless steel surfaces were detected using a combined assay with adenylate kinase as a cellular marker and ATP bioluminescence. The limit of sensitivity ranged from 0·02 to 708 µg for minced meat and broccoli, respectively. Both methods gave the same detection limit (10 5 cfu) for E. coli and Staph. aureus on stainless steel surfaces. The combined adenylate kinase–ATP assay is applicable to monitor the hygiene of work surfaces, especially those prone to contamination by meat and vegetable residues.