AgriFood GPS project
By Michèle Lees, Eurofins Analytics France
In the context of the global food supply chain, the risk of contamination has become a major concern, particularly in terms of consumer health. The methods used today are limited analytical to a targeted approach (they look for a pre-defined list of target contaminants) as un-Assessed or even unknown contaminants may go undetected.
The AgriFood GPS 1 project started on January 1st Which 2012 and will be running over 5 years with a budget of over € 15 millions, is working on new analytical Approaches in order to tackle foodborne risks, by Detecting emerging threats or fraud. The challenge is to prevent health hazards in food products Before They appear on the market and to protect consumers Both 'safety and the future of the producers' business.
The Project Combines authenticity testing with the detection of chemical contaminants as well as screening for microbiological agents. In order to achieve this, various techniques Including nuclear magnetic resonance, high resolution mass spectrometry and Raman spectrometry are Applied to comprehensive food matrices (dairy, meat and fish products, cereals, water, etc.). One of the aims within this context is to develop a reference database of products, a task being Which is Carried out with the help of Eurofins laboratories worldwide.
AgriFood GPS 1 is an ambitious project Involving highly qualified partners:
• Eurofins, leader in bioanalytical testing and Project Coordinator
• Bruker, leading manufacturer of scientific equipment
• Profilomic, innovative start-up company offering Metabolomics Analysis Services and Public Research Bodies
• AgroParisTech
• CEA (Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission)
• Nantes University
• Le Mans University
Eurofins, as a partner and coordinator of ThisProject, is investing substantial resources in the research being Carried Out. This action is consistent with its ambition to prepare a healthy future for consumers and help its customers face tomorrow's challenges.
1 AgriFood Global Protection System
Contact: MicheleLees@eurofins.com