Validation of the 3M(TM) Molecular Detection Assay 2—Salmonella for detection of Salmonella in Dried Cannabis Flower and Dried Hemp Flower: AOAC Performance Tested Methods(SM) 091501

BACKGROUND: The 3M™ Molecular Detection Assay 2—Salmonella method is based on real-time loop-mediated isothermal amplification when used with the 3M Molecular Detection System for the rapid and specific detection of Salmonella in enriched products. The 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2—Salmonella was approved as AOAC INTERNATIONAL (AOAC) Performance Tested Method(SM) (PTM) Certificate No. 091501 and as AOAC Official Method of Analysis(SM)2016.01. OBJECTIVE: This matrix extension study evaluated the 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2—Salmonella for detection of Salmonella in dried cannabis flower [>0.3% delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)] and dried hemp flower (≤0.3% THC) at a 10 g test portion size. METHOD: Matrix studies in dried cannabis and hemp flowers followed procedures outlined in 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2—Salmonella product instructions and Standard Method Performance Requirement (SMPR(®)) for Detection of Salmonella species in Cannabis and Cannabis Products (AOAC SMPR 2020.002). The method was evaluated at low, high, and non-contaminated levels. RESULTS: Results showed no statistically significant difference between the presumptive positive 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2—Salmonella results and the SMPR 2020.002 recommended cultural confirmations. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that the 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2—Salmonella is a reliable method for the rapid and specific detection of Salmonella in dried cannabis flower and dried hemp flower. HIGHLIGHTS: The 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2—Salmonella method is suitable for the rapid and specific detection of Salmonella in dried cannabis flower and dried hemp flower.