Micro Identification Technologies Inc., developer of the groundbreaking MIT 1000 laser-based microbial identification system, says that they are now anticipating growth of 30 percent annually, due to increased demands in such areas as food safety. Their system uses lasers and advanced software to detect the presence of harmful bacteria far more easily and cost effectively than other methods, and is already being produced for major health agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Japanese Ministry of Food Safety.
Every time a new report comes out revealing weaknesses in consumer food safety, the need for a system like the MIT 1000 is brought home. The latest episode involves Taco Bell, part of fast food giant Yum! Brands. Taco Bell is the #1 Mexican fast food chain, with thousands of locations in 20 countries. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the restaurant has recently been linked to outbreaks of Salmonella in 21 states, affecting more than 150 people.
Salmonella food poisoning comes from touching or eating contaminated foods, and can cause diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fever, over a period of several days. In some cases, it can cause severe dehydration, requiring medical help. In the worst situation, it can spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and then to other body sites and can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics. Over 40 of the victims in this most recent outbreak have required hospitalization.
Affected states, from west to east, are Oregon, Washington, Montana, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut , New York, New Jersey, Kentucky, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.
The MIT 1000 system makes it far easier and quicker for businesses and agencies to identify specific pathogenic microbes, and is seen as a major new tool in the war against bacteria and food poisoning.
For more information, visit www.micro-identification.com.
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