Eurofins’ developed technology plays key role in world’s largest allergen study

by Bert Popping

Over the past three years Eurofins has developed and validated innovative allergen detection methods based on liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). This technology has been shown to be superior in the analysis of processed matrices, especially when egg and milk allergens have to be detected. It also has the added value of being able to detect several allergens in a single analysis.

Based on this development, Eurofins was invited to participate in the world's largest study on food allergens. The project is funded by the European Commission under the 7th framework program which runs until 2017. It will perform several allergenicity studies, develop challenge materials for allergic patients and perform analyses using the Eurofins' developed technology.

This will lead to a correlation of allergen trigger levels with detection and quantification of the challenge material using LC-MS/MS technology. It will enable industry to make more precise risk management decisions based on allergen analysis using Eurofins' developed method and ultimately allowing better protection of allergenic consumers. In this project, Eurofins and Unilever represent industry parties.

Contact: BertPopping@eurofins.com