(Microbiology: Animal Food Testing) The New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA) laboratory?s aim, in participating in microbiology testing project, is to improve animal food surveillance through laboratory testing of animal food products. The NJDA microbiology program will test animal food products including pet food and livestock feed for E. coli O157, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella using ISO 17025 accredited methods. The NJDA microbiology program has resources including facility, equipment, and personnel to accomplish the animal food testing proposed under this project. Positives and violative results will be reported to the NJ State animal food regulatory agency and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for regulatory action. The NJDA microbiology program will provide testing for other food borne pathogens if requested by the FDA. The NJDA microbiology program will participate in FERN activities, trainings, proficiency tests (PTs), and FDA assignments. The NJDA microbiology program will collaborate with other labs in methods development and will mentor other participating labs as needed. The microbiology testing project will support development of integrated laboratory science and food safety in the State of New Jersey and the United States in support of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
