Loss of real-time PCR signal (ΔCt value) from viable bacteria by staining with EMA or PMA.

106 viable C. jejuni cells were spiked into 1 ml of either phosphate buffered saline (PBS), buffered peptone water (BPW) or chicken rinse (cRinse). Staining was performed for 5 or 15 min in the dark at room temperature. Mean ΔCt values (with and without dye) ± standard deviation are shown.ex.phase +24 h cells, bacteria grown for 18–24 h on Columbia blood agar or exponentially in liquid medium; 48 h stat. cells, bacteria grown for 40–48 h on Columbia blood agar; all, viable bacteria without differentiation of the growth phase; n. d., not determined; n, number of tested samples.