The year 2025 witnessed a surge in food recalls and safety alerts worldwide, driven by stricter regulations, advanced testing technologies, and increasingly complex global supply chains. While recalls are often perceived negatively, they actually reflect a functioning safety system that prioritizes consumer health. Microbiological contamination topped the list, accounting for roughly 33 % of all […]
Food safety remains a central challenge not only in the European Union but worldwide. The recently published EFSA One Health 2024 Zoonoses Report highlights the continued prevalence of major foodborne pathogens: Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter, and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). These pathogens are responsible for thousands of human cases each year and remain a […]
Spices bring flavor, color, and aroma to our dishes but they can also carry hidden risks. Did you know that chili, pepper, turmeric and other spices are among the most vulnerable foods to mycotoxin contamination? Warm, humid conditions during cultivation and storage create the perfect environment for molds like Aspergillus and Penicillium. Their toxic metabolites […]
Infant formula safety is once again in the spotlight. Following the recent botulism outbreak in the United States, concerns about microbial risks in baby food have intensified. Prompting a nationwide recall and renewed attention to the importance of rigorous testing and quality assurance. The botulism cases highlight that Clostridium botulinum—though less common—poses a severe threat. […]
How Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Real-Time PCR are shaping the new era of food safety With Regulation (EU) 2025/179, the European Union mandates the use of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) for certain foodborne pathogens starting August 23, 2026: This applies when these pathogens are linked to a foodborne outbreak, or such a link is […]
We are proud to announce that our SureFast® Listeria 3plex ONE multiplex real-time PCR kit has received AOAC Official Method of Analysis (OMA) approval, a globally recognized standard for method validation. This includes the SureFast® Listeria 3plex ONE Kit and the SureFast® PREP Bacteria Kit in a Variety of Foods (including dairy, meat, seafood, produce, […]
What are mycotoxin binders, when are they used, and how is their efficiency tested? How can they help mitigate aflatoxin effects in animal feed and reduce aflatoxin M1 in milk? This blog post explores these questions and highlights the importance of binder technologies amid rising aflatoxin contamination risks. Mycotoxins, toxic metabolites produced by fungi such […]
The Haunting Legacy of St. Anthony’s Fire Long before “ergot alkaloids ” were known and identified, their devastating effects were etched into the cultural memory of Europe as St. Anthony’s Fire. This mysterious disease, now known as ergotism, was caused by consuming rye and other grains contaminated with the fungus Claviceps purpurea. Victims suffered burning sensations, hallucinations, convulsions, and […]
MicroVal & AOAC – What these certifications mean for your testing methods When it comes to microbiological testing in food, one thing matters most: trust in the method. In critical situations – such as a positive Listeria result – every finding must be reliable, traceable, and regulatory compliant. That’s where internationally recognized certifications like MicroVal […]
Gluten in means gluten out – sounds logical. If you produce gluten-free products, ensuring that your raw materials are also gluten-free is crucial. How can you ensure your raw materials are gluten-free? How to rapidly know the amount of gluten in the incoming goods, without sending samples to a laboratory? We may have the solution […]
Reliable Listeria detection – Compliant, Safe, Validated Whether you’re a food manufacturer or a contract laboratory – when it comes to Listeria, there is zero tolerance.Microbiological safety requirements in the food industry are continuously increasing. A key focus: Listeria monocytogenes – a high-risk pathogen for both consumers and producers. Listeria is one of the most significant microbiological […]
Listeria – a serious challenge in food production. Listeria, especially Listeria monocytogenes, are rod-shaped, pathogenic bacteria that are widespread in the environment – found in soil, water, plants, and animals. Whether cheese, meat and fish products, or ready-to-eat foods – Listeria can infiltrate food production through raw materials, personnel, or equipment. They survive in cold […]
With the increased popularity of plant-based foods it is essential for vegetarians, vegans and others to maintain an adequate intake of nutrients such as vitamin B12 which is otherwise found predominantly in animal products. Vegans often consume macroalgae and fermented vegetables to improve their vitamin B12 status, even though these foodstuffs are not potent sources […]
Commission Implementing Decision of 22 November 2012 authorised the use of bovine lactoferrin as a novel food ingredient. This substance is an iron-binding glycoprotein of approximately 77 kDa found in milk that may provide many health benefits, including improved immunity, better gut health, and protection against infection. The authorisation of bovine lactoferrin specifies permitted use as […]
SureFast® Listeria 3plex ONE qPCR Kit was evaluated and approved by the AOAC Performance Tested MethodsSM (PTM) Program. It is now officially AOAC PTM certified (062501) — marking another milestone in reliable and efficient food safety analysis. Two-in-One: SureFast® Listeria 3plex ONE qPCR Test Kit Including DNA Preparation Key Benefits: Validated for a Variety of Food Matrices […]
Mousiness (or mousy taint) is making a comeback. Long considered a niche fault associated with natural or low-intervention winemaking, this off-flavor is increasingly being reported in a wider range of wines – including conventional styles. For wineries and labs alike, it presents both a sensory and microbiological challenge. Fortunately, modern tools like real-time PCR can […]
Fusarium toxins are among the most prevalent contaminants in cereals and grain-based products. These naturally occurring toxins, produced by Fusarium fungi, pose risks to both human and animal health, making their regulation a priority for food safety authorities worldwide. In 2024, the European Union introduced stricter legislation, lowering the maximum legislative levels of deoxynivalenol (DON) […]
Which test for what? Conversions according to the food composition
As Europe continues to be a global leader in wheat production, ensuring the safety and quality of this staple crop is paramount. One of the most pressing concerns for farmers, food producers, and regulators alike is deoxynivalenol (DON) contamination—a pervasive mycotoxin that threatens both human and animal health. Commonly known as vomitoxin, DON is produced […]
The gluten free market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with a global valuation of $6.45 billion and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8%, according to Grand View Research. This surge is driven by increasing consumer awareness of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity, as well as a broader trend toward health-conscious eating. However, as demand […]
What is AOAC PTM certification? AOAC Performance Tested Methods (PTM) certification is a recognised standard that verifies product methods through comprehensive laboratory testing. This certification ensures that methods meet the highest of standards. In the case of R-Biopharm Rhône’s 11+Myco MS-PREP® columns, a single multi-mycotoxin extraction method for multi-mycotoxin analysis of cereals, baby food, spices, […]
Bovine lactoferrin is a multi-functional protein found in cow’s milk that plays a crucial role in health and nutrition. This remarkable protein is particularly significant in establishing and maintaining an infant’s immune system, aiding in iron metabolism, and supporting gut health. Lactoferrin’s benefits are not limited to infants; it is increasingly recognised for its potential […]
Ensuring a safe holiday season: Managing allergens and microbiological risks in Christmas foods The holiday season is a time for celebration, and food plays a central role in bringing people together. From festive dinners to sweet treats, Christmas menus often feature a wide array of ingredients, including some that pose significant health risks for those […]
The presence of mycotoxins in food and feed poses a significant health risk, necessitating the need for accurate and reliable testing methods. Laboratories have several options for analysing multi-mycotoxins, each with its own advantages and limitations. The choice of method typically depends on factors such as sensitivity, selectivity, and cost. This article explores the move […]
In today’s rapidly changing economic landscape, laboratories face increasing pressure to maintain food security while managing costs. Mycotoxins, which are toxic compounds produced by certain moulds, pose a significant threat to global agriculture. They can arise both pre-harvest and during storage, leading to crop losses and impacting food safety. As a result, strict regulations are […]
In the beverage industry, particularly in the production of fruit juices and soft drinks, microbial contamination poses considerable challenges to product quality and shelf life. While strict hygiene protocols and pasteurization processes aim to mitigate contamination, certain resilient microorganisms, such as molds, yeasts & bacteria, continue to present issues. Among these, Alicyclobacillus species, yeasts, and […]
In the realm of food and feed safety, mycotoxins represent a significant and ongoing challenge. These naturally occurring toxins, produced by certain moulds, commonly contaminate a variety of agricultural commodities. The most notorious mycotoxins include aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, fumonisins and zearalenone. These toxins can develop at various stages of crop growth, harvesting, and storage, often […]
Norovirus facts:￭ Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea￭ Contaminated oysters are a common source of outbreaks￭ Rapid detection is essential to prevent the spread of illness Norovirus remains a significant cause of foodborne illness worldwide, particularly within the food industry, where maintaining safety and quality is paramount. In 2024, there […]
Monitoring and controlling mycotoxins like ochratoxin A (OTA) in food involves not only routine analysis but also identifying the sources of fungal infection. This is crucial for high-value products such as coffee, where OTA can significantly impact market prices for producers. A recent study published by Rodríguez et al. in the journal Postharvest Biology and […]
On August 2nd, 2024, brewers and beer enthusiasts around the world will raise their glasses to celebrate International Beer Day. As we toast to this much-loved beverage, it’s important to highlight the importance of maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety in beer production. For brewers and testing laboratories, testing methods, such as qPCR, […]
There are more than two million new cases of hepatitis every year and over a million people lose their lives to hepatitis. As we observe World Hepatitis Day, it’s an important reminder of the crucial role that food safety plays in preventing the spread of hepatitis and other foodborne illnesses. This day, recognized annually on […]
In the complex world of wine making, precision and quality control are paramount to delivering exceptional products. Real-time PCR is a great tool for gaining invaluable insights to the microbial status and thus enhancing quality control measures from grape to bottle. Quality assurance in wine makingqPCR has emerged as a supporting tool for quality assurance […]
In the world of food production, few sectors hold as much significance as the nut industry. With nuts serving as key ingredients in numerous recipes and snacks enjoyed globally, ensuring their safety and quality is paramount. Yet, beneath the surface of seemingly innocuous nuts lies a potential threat: mycotoxins. Mycotoxins pose a considerable risk to […]
The World Allergy Week provides an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about food allergies, safety, and testing. In this article, we’ll explore food allergies, recent food recalls due to undeclared allergens, the most common allergens involved, and food testing methods options. Food allergies Food allergies remain a global public health issue. Some food allergies, especially […]
On June 7th, 2024, the world comes together to mark World Food Safety Day, highlighting the critical importance of ensuring food safety across the globe. This year’s theme underscores the necessity of being prepared to tackle food safety incidents swiftly and effectively. It targets to draw attention and motivate action to help prevent, detect and […]
With the global importance of rice as a staple food, addressing aflatoxin contamination is crucial for ensuring food safety and public health. R-Biopharm Rhône offers a wide range of analytical solutions tailored for the precise analysis of AFTs. Our immunoaffinity clean-up methods ensure high specificity by isolating and concentrating the mycotoxin of interest from the sample. These products exceed Official Method criteria and have undergone rigorous validation in numerous CEN and AOAC collaborative trials, being widely referenced in scientific publications. For more information on how to test for aflatoxins in rice, please contact us.
In the realm of corporate sustainability in the food industry a distinct trend is emerging – the integration of edible insects. Once considered a novelty or even a taboo, insects are now gaining recognition as a viable and eco-friendly protein source with the potential to revolutionise the way we eat. Why edible insects? With the […]
The RIDA®SMART App Allergen is your little helper in documenting your food allergen testing results with lateral flow-based tests.
Choosing the right food allergen test method for testing food allergens sounds easy. But which allergen testing method to choose? ELISA? Lateral Flow Tests? qPCR? We can offer you different food allergen test methods for most food allergens – but most important is to choose the method that meets your specific requirements. Read here how […]
The new RIDA® SMART BOX connects mycotoxin test results with your quality control data management system. In today’s interconnected world, the ability to integrate data and processes is critical. The RIDA Smart Box goes beyond traditional testing methodologies, offering connectivity features that facilitate real-time data exchange and analysis. The RIDA® SMART BOX integrates the RIDA® […]
Historically analytical methods intended to be used for regulatory purposes, so called ‘Official Methods’ were the result of a full interlaboratory collaborative study being undertaken. Such studies have resulted in fourteen AOAC First Action methods for mycotoxins published since 1999 of which the last one ten years ago was for aflatoxins in edible oils (2013.05). […]
Microbial stability another important parameter to consider. Especially for the wines bottled unfiltered, it is a crucial measurement, in order to e.g. avoid post-fermentation in the bottle as well as off-flavor production. Our new GEN-IAL® QuickGEN PCR Kit Yeast universal is ideal as quality check before bottling. Ensuring microbiological stability of wines throughout winter aging Young red […]
Detecting and mitigating mycotoxins like fumonisins have emerged as pivotal concerns in ensuring food and feed safety. The increased focus on fumonisin testing stems from various critical factors – Health concerns: Fumonisins have been associated with severe health issues in both humans and animals. These toxins, when ingested through contaminated food or feed, can lead […]
While in the vineyards, the winter pruning is ongoing, in the cellars the fermentation processes are slowing down or are coming to an end. The young wines either remain on the lees (yeast) for a while or are moved to new tanks or wooden barrels. Some white wines are already prepared for bottling. Before bottling, […]
Well, ELISA RIDASCREEN® Gliadin is the reference method as it detects directly the gluten proteins. Why should you be using PCR? Table 1 Overview of qPCR kits and their application fields R-Biopharm – your expert when it comes to gluten analysis R-Biopharm is the world market leader in gluten testing; we provide the widest range […]
As we gather with loved ones to celebrate Christmas, there’s an opportunity to not only indulge in delicious food but also to make choices that are kind to the planet. In this Christmas food blog, we’ll explore the concept of a sustainable Christmas feast. From locally sourced ingredients to eco-friendly cooking methods and mindful consumption, […]
Mycotoxins are naturally occurring toxic compounds produced by moulds that can contaminate a wide range of agricultural products, including cereals, nuts and animal feeds. These invisible threats pose a significant risk to both human and animal health, making accurate mycotoxin analysis in food and feed a critical component of food safety and quality assurance. In […]
The growing demand for plant-based products for vegan or vegetarian consumers is also a major challenge for food manufacturers. Many manufacturers have expanded their product line to include new plant-based products that replicate burgers and other meat dishes with plant-based ingredients, deceptively imitating the taste and texture of meat. Products range from plant-based burgers to […]
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