Abstract: The objective of this study is to establish a multiplex PCR assay for the detection Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli O157:H7 on fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. Four pairs of specific primers were designed according to the inlA gene of L. monocytogenes, the invA gene of S. typhimurium, the nuc of S. aureus and the wzy gene of E. coli O157:H7, respectively. The limits of detection (LODs) for L. monocytogenes, S. typhimurium, S. aureus and E. coli O157:H7 were 3.5 × 106, 1.6 × 105, 2.4 × 105, and 4.8 × 105 CFU/mL, respectively. This assay was advantageous for saving labor, reagents and time (9–11 h vs. 5–7 d) over traditional culture method. The present method can provide a significant guidance for enterprises or analytical and testing centers to monitor massive samples.

Key words: multiplex PCR, rapid detection, foodborne pathogen, fresh-cut fruits and vegetables