Eurofins pioneers Allergen multi-screening in a single analysis

Eurofins has developed a methodology that allows direct detection of proteins from allergenic compounds in a single analysis using mass spectrometry (MS). Consistent with its mission of being at the forefront of laboratory testing innovation, Eurofins' scientists have developed a method for allergen multi-screening effectively and at a reasonable cost.

Current methodologies only indirectly detect allergens typically one at a time. The new method allows multiple direct detection of proteins from allergenic compounds in a single analysis using mass spectrometry. It allows simple and easy identification of many allergens in complex food matrices, which leads to better risk management for food manufacturers, and ultimately, safer products for the consumers.

The new MS-based methodology enables detection of 7 of the 14 groups that require labeling according to the European Commission's allergen regulation (68/2007/EC) in one single analysis. In addition, the analysis also covers gluten regulation (41/2009/EC). Importantly, the direct detection of analytes significantly reduces the probability of false negative or false positive test results. Furthermore, the turnaround time (TAT) and the cost of multi-screening are significantly lower than for individual ELISA based tests.

Bert Popping, Director of Molecular Biology and Immunology at Eurofins, comments: "We are very pleased to have the co-operation of big food companies, the European Commission and other experts in this endeavour. We are optimistic that this development will lead to routine release analysis of food products using the technology which allows the detection of all relevant allergens in a single analysis".

The allergen multi-screening analysis is available from Eurofins-On-Line (EOL).

The relevant peer-reviewed papers are available in the Journal of AOAC. 

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Notes for the editor:

Eurofins - a global leader in bio-analysis

Eurofins Scientific is a life sciences company operating internationally to provide a comprehensive range of analytical testing services to clients from a wide range of industries including the pharmaceutical, food and environmental sectors.

With over 9,000 staff in more than 150 laboratories across 30 countries, Eurofins offers a portfolio of over 40,000 reliable analytical methods for evaluating the authenticity, origin, safety, identity, composition and purity of biological substances and products. The Group is committed to providing its customers with high quality services, accurate results in time and, if requested, expert advice by its highly qualified staff.

The Eurofins Group is the world leader in food testing and one of the global market leaders in pharmaceuticals and environmental testing. It intends to pursue its dynamic growth strategy and expand 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 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 demands of regulatory authorities around the world.

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

Important disclaimer:

This press release contains forward-looking statements and estimates that involve risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements and estimates contained herein represent the judgement of Eurofins Scientific’ management as of the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees for future performance, and the forward-looking events discussed in this release may not occur. Eurofins Scientific disclaims any intent or obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements and estimates. All statements and estimates are made based on the data available to the Company as of the date of publication, but no guarantee can be made as to their validity.