DCL uses latest diagnostic technology to find disease causing bacteria in food

Through this technology the bacteria can be found even if it is less in number that normally cannot be found through routine traditional investigation.

"The DCL is always keen to become the top product confidence vendor in the region through which we can accomplish the vision of Dubai Municipality to create an excellent city that provides the essence of success and comfort of living,"

said Eng. Hawa Bastaki, Director of Dubai Central Laboratory Department.

She said the technology used in the laboratory is one of the most advanced technologies used in the world. "DCL is considered to be the first lab in the country that uses the molecular diagnostic technology, which is based on DNA and is used to find out the disease causing bacteria usually causing food poison," said Bastaki.

Maha Al Hajiri, Head of Food and Environmental Laboratory Section in the DCL said the technology called Bax Screening System Q7 is certified by the Association of Analytical Communities (AOAC).

"By using this technology we can get accurate and fast result, which is the advantage of the DNA-based advanced technology compared to other technologies used for this purpose. The latest technology is used to find most of the disease causing bacteria that are mostly transmitted through food such as salmonella and Listeria, E-coli O157:H7 and Enterobacter sakazaki," she said.

Food and Environmental Lab is conducting a training course this month on how to use the latest technology for a number of food analysts from different food labs in the country. The lab offers tens of specialised training courses to use molecular diagnostic technology. The lab distinguishes in conducting this test.