Eurofins launches an innovative DNA chip technology enabling the identification of 21 animal species in food and feed

Eurofins Scientific (EUFI.PA), world leader in food and environment testing, has launched a novel analytical method based on DNA chip technology which enables simultaneous detection and identification of up to 21 animal species[1] in feed and food products.

Following the horsemeat crisis in 2013, identification of animal species in food products has become a major concern for the feed and food industry in Europe. Existing analytical methods for the detection of single species are no longer sufficient to meet the current supply chain requirements, such as verifying that product composition not only complies with relevant regulations, but is also entirely consistent with the claims on the label, and ensuring the absence of undesired species in the product (e.g. horsemeat in beef, or ruminants in animal feed).

The molecular biology testing unit of Eurofins' flagship laboratory in Nantes has developed an innovative DNA chip testing method to expand the scope of analysis to multiple species in different food and feed matrices. Using mitochondrial DNA[2] targets, the chip technology enables sensitive and reliable detection at low thresholds (0.1%) with a short turnaround time (5 working days from sample reception). With this fully-accredited[3] test, specific and cost-effective detection of a large panel of species is now possible. The modular concept of the technology allows the identification of up to 21 meat species, according to customer needs, with only one test. The method has been specifically developed for meat and complex and/or processed food, as well as animal feed and pet food. With this new qualitative test, Eurofins provides unparalleled testing services for a wide range of species identification, including "species-specific" PCR to detect one particular species and other semi-quantitative tests to determine the proportions of the species contained in the product.

The new meat speciation test is another illustration of Eurofins' capability to leverage its Group-wide competencies to deliver the most innovative analytical solutions for its clients, and maintain its leading position as the leading reference laboratory group for food and feed testing worldwide.

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Notes for the editor:

Eurofins - a global leader in bio-analysis

Eurofins Scientific is the world leader in food and pharmaceutical products testing. It is also number one in the world in the field of environmental laboratory services and one of the global market leaders in agroscience, genomics, discovery pharmacology and central laboratory services.

With over 17,000 staff in more than 200 laboratories across 36 countries, Eurofins offers a portfolio of over 130,000 reliable analytical methods for evaluating the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin and purity of biological substances and products. The Group provides its customers with high-quality services, accurate results in time and expert advice by its highly qualified staff.

Eurofins is committed to pursuing its dynamic growth strategy by expanding both its technology portfolio and its geographic reach. Through R&D and acquisitions, the Group draws on the latest developments in the field of biotechnology and analytical chemistry to offer its clients unique analytical solutions and the most comprehensive range of testing methods.

As one of the most innovative and quality oriented international players in its industry, Eurofins is ideally positioned to support its clients' increasingly stringent quality and safety standards and the expanding demands of regulatory authorities around the world.

The shares of Eurofins Scientific are listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN FR0000038259, Reuters EUFI.PA, Bloomberg ERF FP).