Rapid Pathogen Assay Development
Spectacular Labs develops rapid pathogen assays for the detection of high-risk foodborne organisms using the SpectacularOne device. Our assay portfolio is designed to meet real-world production constraints—fast turnaround, sealed workflows, and actionable results delivered through SpectacularCloud.
Current Pipeline: Three active assays and three in development, each designed for specific industry needs and regulatory requirements.
Active Assays
Salmonella spp.
ActiveOverview: Detection of non-typhoidal Salmonella species via molecular amplification of conserved genomic targets.
Why It Matters: Salmonella is one of the top global causes of foodborne illness. Rapid detection minimizes hold time and helps contain contamination events early.
Typical Matrices: Poultry, produce, dairy, environmental swabs.
Availability: In use across pilot sites. AOAC validation in progress.
Listeria spp.
ActiveOverview: Broad-range genus detection for Listeria species through multiplex signature gene targets.
Why It Matters: Listeria control is a regulatory requirement in many food production zones, especially in RTE (Ready-to-Eat) facilities.
Typical Matrices: Swabs, chilled foods, dairy, processing equipment.
Availability: Active in environmental monitoring programs. AOAC underway.
E. coli O157
ActiveOverview: Specific identification of Escherichia coli O157 using selective gene targets unique to the serotype.
Why It Matters: A major pathogen linked to leafy greens and beef recalls. Rapid screening supports immediate action under USDA/FDA oversight.
Typical Matrices: Raw beef, leafy greens, water samples, dairy.
Availability: In evaluation and pilot use.
Coming Soon
Campylobacter spp.
In DevelopmentOverview: Genus-level detection of Campylobacter with high sensitivity for C. jejuni and C. coli.
Why It Matters: Common in poultry processing, Campylobacter is often under-tested due to complexity. Rapid detection enables faster lot disposition.
Typical Matrices: Poultry rinses, meat contact surfaces, swabs.
Expected Release: Early Access: Q1 2026
Listeria monocytogenes
In DevelopmentOverview: Differentiated detection of monocytogenes from other Listeria spp. through virulence factor targeting.
Why It Matters: Required for product-hold decision making and post-cleaning verification in FDA-regulated environments.
Typical Matrices: Dairy, soft cheese, RTE meats, Zone 1/2 swabs.
Expected Release: H1 2026
E. coli (STEC)
In DevelopmentOverview: Identification of Shiga toxin–producing E. coli via stx1/stx2 gene amplification.
Why It Matters: STEC strains are high-risk and can lead to costly recalls. Early detection supports consumer safety and brand protection.
Typical Matrices: Sprouts, ground beef, produce, environmental surfaces.
Expected Release: H2 2026
How We Prioritize Assay Development
Our roadmap is driven by a combination of public health impact, regulatory alignment, and direct customer demand. Through our Customer Advisory Council — composed of food safety leaders, QA managers, and public sector partners — we identify which pathogens, matrices, and operational constraints matter most.
Once prioritized, assays are developed using standardized methods that favor sealed workflows, short enrichment times, and molecular targets proven effective in diverse field conditions. Each assay undergoes internal performance benchmarking before entering validation and peer-reviewed research.
Our goal is to enable production-grade pathogen detection that's as accessible and responsive as modern food systems demand.
Development Process
Customer Input
Customer Advisory Council identifies priority pathogens and matrices
Development
Standardized methods with sealed workflows and proven targets
Validation
Internal benchmarking, validation, and peer-reviewed research
Ready to Access Our Assay Portfolio?
Learn more about our active assays and upcoming releases. Get early access to new developments.