Take even better control of food safety with LoopiX®: Innovative and fast pathogen detection

Christeyns launches LoopiX®, a revolutionary pathogen detection system that allows any food producer to react quickly to the presence of pathogens. LoopiX® provides reliable screening forListeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp within 90 minutes. This allows food producers to react quickly to potential contaminations and minimise the risk of product recalls or reputational damage.

Christeyns is bringing LoopiX® to the market in an exclusive partnership with Loop Dee Science. LoopiX® is a compact, innovative and patented device to detect specific pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp in a fast, safe and very simple way. This innovation enables food producers to optimise pathogen monitoring in-house.

How does LoopiX® work?

The principle of LoopiX® is based on LAMP technology. The test comprises 5 phases. After the first stage of sample collection, the device will destroy the bacteria present in the sample, releasing the genetic material (lysis). In the next phase, it purifies the released genetic material (DNA/RNA). Then the LoopiX® device starts making numerous copies of the pathogen-specific gene if present (amplification). In the read-out phase, using a catalyst, the device generates a light reaction that is translated by the sensor and associated software into a qualitative output: the presence or absence of the pathogen in the sample.

The results of the test are available within 90 minutes. The required manual operations take only about 30 minutes and consist of sampling, purification and set-up of the test. Lysis, amplification and readout are fully automated and controlled by the LoopiX® device.

Schematic representation of the LoopiX® protocol

The benefits of LoopiX®

LoopiX® is an innovation in the industry because it combines speed and reliability with the ability to test in-house.

1. Fast, simple and analytical analysis

All pathogens can be analysed using a single device. The performance of the device and test kits has been extensively evaluated internally and externally. Qualitative and reliable results are obtained in less than 90 minutes.

2. No laboratory required

LoopiX® does not require a laboratory environment to perform the tests. On the one hand, the device is small and mobile so it does not necessarily need to be used in a laboratory. On the other hand, the risk of microbiological cross-contamination is significantly lower than with other available methods. This is due to the second step in the process, lysis, where the bacteria are directly destroyed and therefore no enrichment or growth site is needed in the protocol.

3. Minimal skills needed

Employees can perform the protocol using unambiguous instructions. No extensive training or laboratory expertise is needed to operate the device and perform the test.

4. In-house results

LoopiX® is very suitable for performing all non-mandatory or additional tests internally in a fast and efficient way. In the context of screening, but also for the follow-up of hot spots and corrective actions, there is no need to wait for reporting from external labs.

5. Minimise product contamination

A manufacturer can more quickly shut down affected production lines and take targeted corrective actions. Implementing LoopiX® in the monitoring process helps to reduce the number of recalls and thus protect consumer health and the producer's reputation.

By integrating LoopiX® into existing monitoring programmes, every food producer now has the opportunity to further control the presence of specific pathogens in his/her production process.

LoopiX® fits into the concept of ‘Beyond Chemicals’

Christeyns stands for more than just chemistry. Christeyns' focus is not only on its extensive range of cleaning and disinfection products, but mainly on total solutions, including cleaning materials and technical support. The Christeyns experts offer customised advice around all aspects of hygiene, with services such as pathogen control, allergen control, hygiene and biofilm checks. LoopiX® is now an important addition to this suite of analytical tools. In all solutions, Christeyns also has the sustainability aspect in mind. In this way, customers can often save costs as well as make a contribution to ecology.