Neogen Europe have announced new tests to detect hazardous toxins in grains, wine, nuts and coffee

Nov 8 2004

Neogen Europe Ltd. announced today the introduction of two new tests to detect hazardous toxins in grains, wine, nuts and coffee. Marketing has begun in Europe and the products will soon be available in the United States and other worldwide markets.

The diagnostic tests for aflatoxin and ochratoxin were developed by scientists at Neogen's European headquarters in Ayr, Scotland. This wholly- owned subsidiary of U.S.-based Neogen Corporation maintains independent research activity for plant diseases and other tests of strong European interest.

The new tests are immunoaffinity columns that capture toxins from food and animal feed samples for analysis by laboratory instruments. Neogen, perhaps the largest worldwide producer of natural toxin tests, has produced and marketed tests in immunoassay formats for many years. Neogen introduced a rapid dipstick format in early July. This newest column format provides customers a third option to rapidly and accurately test for hazardous toxins affecting worldwide food and animal feeds.

"We are pleased to provide this newest test format for our worldwide business," said Dr. Stephen Holmes, Neogen Europe's managing director. "As allowable levels of these toxins have been reduced in Europe, testing requirements have increased. Neogen now offers a more complete testing package than any of its competitors."

Both aflatoxin and ochratoxin are regarded worldwide as potent carcinogens, and most countries have strict regulations and testing requirements. The toxins are chemicals that form as the result of mold growth during the production and storage of grains, nuts, spices, coffee beans, and fruits such as wine grapes and dates.