Foodborne virus analysis

Eurofins Food & Feed Testing laboratories support you in assessing viral risks and implementing preventive or corrective measures. Enteric viruses (such as Norovirus, Hepatitis A) are highly resistant to conventional processes (cold, cooking, pasteurisation), making them a major challenge for food safety.

Key services

  • Detection and identification of Norovirus GI, GII and Hepatitis A virus
  • Quantification of Norovirus GI, GII
  • Adaptable tests for other viruses (Rotavirus, Adenovirus)
  • RT-PCR method, with results within a few days

High-risk products and sources of contamination

A wide range of foods and processing environments can harbour foodborne viruses. The most commonly affected products include:

  • Herbs and spices
  • Raw vegetables
  • Fruits (fresh, frozen, dried or pureed)
  • Shellfish and molluscs
  • Clean or wastewater

Contamination can also occur on contact surfaces in production environments, such as worktops, machinery or packaging lines.

Legal framework and guidelines*

  • EU: Commission Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005 (microbiological criteria for foodstuffs)
  • UK: Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005 on microbiological criteria for foodstuffs has been retained in UK law post‑Brexit as retained EU legislation.
  • UK and EU: The hygiene of foodstuffs governed by Regulation (EC) No 852/2004, which requires food businesses to manage safety risks, such as those posed by foodborne viruses, through good hygiene practices and HACCP-based procedures.

* Regulatory information is provided for general guidance only and may not reflect the most recent regulatory changes. Always consult official sources for up‑to‑date legislation. For market‑specific support, please contact your local Eurofins Food & Feed Testing laboratory. Our specialists offer tailored support through horizon scanning and food safety consultancy services.

Get in touch

For small batches, order our most routine testing from Eurofins Testing Direct.

Would you like to find out more about our testing solutions, access our competence centre services, or do you need tailored analytical or consultancy support?

Contact Eurofins Food Testing UK today to speak to our experts by submitting an enquiry form or calling +44 (0) 845 604 6740.

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