Gluten detection in food – Measurement of Gliadin

Importance of gluten detection for celiac disease and gluten sensitivity

Individuals with celiac disease must strictly avoid gluten-containing foods. Additionally, a growing number of consumers opt to avoid gluten for various health reasons. Reliable gluten-free labeling is crucial, and producers must ensure their products meet gluten-free regulations. Validated gluten test kits provide an essential tool for gluten-free food producers to maintain product safety and quality.

Challenges in producing gluten-free products

Creating gluten-free products that are both healthy and delicious can be challenging. Manufacturers must ensure their products comply with legal requirements for gluten-free labeling. Testing for gluten, specifically gliadin, is a critical aspect of quality control. Our extensive range of test kits supports manufacturers in maintaining high standards of gluten detection and product integrity.

Lateral flow test for gluten analysis

Begin by testing surfaces in production areas using lateral flow tests such as the RIDA®QUICK Gliadin. It’s important to check for gluten traces in the laboratory to ensure accurate testing results. The RIDA®QUICK Gliadin lateral flow test is also suitable for testing ingredients and raw materials, providing a comprehensive approach to gluten detection throughout the production process.

Gluten extraction methods

After ensuring your production environment is free from gluten contamination, test raw materials and finished products for gluten presence. Effective extraction of gluten from food is crucial for accurate analysis. Depending on the food matrix and test method, you can choose between ethanol extraction and the patented Mendez cocktail extraction solution.

• Ethanol extraction: Suitable for use with RIDASCREEN® Gliadin competitive or RIDA®QUICK Gliadin tests.
• Mendez cocktail solution: Ideal for use with RIDASCREEN® Gliadin, RIDASCREEN®FAST Gliadin, or RIDA®QUICK Gliadin tests.

ELISA test for gluten analysis

Select the appropriate gluten test kit for your products:

• Sandwich ELISA: Best for testing most food products.
• Competitive ELISA: Ideal for testing fermented or hydrolyzed products like beer, syrups, or sourdough.

All mentioned test kits utilize the R5 antibody (Mendez). According to Codex Alimentarius (Codex Standard 118-1979, 2008), the R5 antibody-based ELISA is the standard method for determining gluten. The RIDASCREEN® Gliadin ELISA and RIDASCREEN® Gliadin competitive tests are recognized as AOAC Official Methods of Analysis.

PCR Test for gluten analysis

PCR testing complements ELISA results and can be used both qualitatively and quantitatively. All qPCR kits feature a standardized sample and test procedure, with options for semi-automated sample preparation available. The unique SureFood® ALLERGEN 4plex Cereals (S7006) kit differentiates between cereal species, including wheat, barley, and rye, offering a versatile tool for comprehensive gluten analysis.

Key benefits of monitoring gluten in food

• Consumer protection: Ensures that individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance can safely consume food products labeled as gluten-free, protecting them from adverse health effects.
• Regulatory compliance: Helps manufacturers meet gluten-free labeling regulations, ensuring that products comply with legal standards and are safe for sensitive consumers.
• Quality assurance: Maintains the integrity and safety of gluten-free products by accurately detecting and quantifying gluten levels, preventing contamination.
• Comprehensive testing: Utilizes a range of sensitive and specific test methods, including lateral flow tests for surface swabbing and ELISA tests for ingredient and product analysis, to ensure thorough monitoring of gluten presence.
• Efficiency and reliability: Provides fast, reliable results that support efficient quality control processes and timely product release.

Conclusion

Monitoring for gluten is critical for protecting consumers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining product quality. Advanced testing methods, such as lateral flow tests and ELISA, enable accurate detection and quantification of gluten in various food products and environments. By implementing these testing protocols, manufacturers can prevent contamination, safeguard consumer health, and uphold the highest standards of food safety in gluten-free products.