USDA-FSIS Seeks Information on Test Methods for STEC in Meat to Inform Laboratory Methods, Regulations
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) is seeking input from commercial vendors regarding innovative laboratory rapid screening methods and selective media for detecting and isolating Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) present in raw beef and other food products.
Vendors are invited to submit concise information about their STEC testing kits, media, and workflows—especially those capable of selecting, identifying, and isolating STEC strains independently of serogroup. Submissions should highlight technical capabilities, validation data, and operational requirements. FSIS is particularly interested in serogroup-independent solutions and methods compatible with meat-based microbiology testing.
FSIS continually seeks to modernize its pathogen testing methods and aims to adopt new technologies that advance food safety and improve laboratory testing accuracy and efficiency. Responses will help inform future regulatory decisions and laboratory methods to enhance public health outcomes.
The Requests for Information (RFIs) for STEC Detection and STEC Media are open until December 8, 2026 at 12:00 P.M. ET.
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