Allergen Testing

Food manufacturers face growing concerns regarding the presence of allergens in their products. Allergen related issues are the leading cause of product recalls. Globally, an increase in the specificity and scope of regulations, combined with a heightened awareness by the media and by the public has increased the concern of accidental mislabeling or cross-contamination that could happen during product manufacturing.

To help food companies meet the challenges posed by allergens, Eurofins GeneScan offers a wide array of PCR and ELISA based tests for determining the presence and quantity of allergens in processed foods and ingredients. Having the capability of using both PCR and ELISA based methodologies allows Eurofins GeneScan to apply the specific methodology that best fits the sample matrix in question and avoid the “one-size fits all” solution that other labs, without Eurofins GeneScan’s scope of experience must provide.

Additionally, Eurofins GeneScan offers consulting and auditing services that will help food companies implement and allergen management and risk assessment programs. International Scope of Allergen Issues Regulatory agencies around the world are responding to the increased pressure from their citizens for control and labeling of allergens in food products. Companies who produce or market their products in the international marketplace must be aware of the various ingredients that are considered allergens in different countries. The table below illustrates this fact for Japan, EU, Canada and the US.

International Scope of Allergen Issues

Regulatory agencies around the world are responding to the increased pressure from their citizens for control and labeling of allergens in food products. Companies who produce or market their products in the international marketplace must be aware of the various ingredients that are considered allergens in different countries. The table below illustrates this fact for Japan, EU, Canada and the US.

Eurofins GeneScan offers analytical testing to detect a wide range of allergens. The most common requests for allergen detection are:

• Whey
• Casein
• Treenuts
• Egg
• Gluten
• Peanut
• Soy

In addition, we offer PCR testing for the detection of soy and corn DNA. We also perform PCR tests for the detection of walnut, fish, celery, and other analytes. Please contact us for information concerning other allergens and priority service availability.