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Detecting allergens in food

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Allergen Analytics: from raw material to end product

Knowledge about ingredients that can trigger allergies and other undesirable reactions is of utmost importance for food safety. Additionally, there are special requirements when food is to be specifically labeled – for example with the Gluten-Free Quality Seal.

With comprehensive expertise and many years of experience, Biolytix offers professional allergen testing for various requirements. As a competent partner, we support all areas involved in the production process – from field to table. From suppliers and food producers to trade and distribution, as well as gastronomy and catering, down to the end consumer, we provide our clients with tailored allergen analytics.

By the way: Our examination methods are also suitable for detecting allergens in animal feeds – primarily specialized food for sensitive dogs.

Allergen Analysis - Our Services

We offer allergen tests for all steps in the food manufacturing process – from raw materials to the finished product, as well as for cleaning verification.

From enzymatic and ELISA methods to highly specific real-time PCR and rapid biochip techniques, a suitable analytical strategy is available for every allergen-related question. The goal: detect allergens at all levels of the production chain!

If it needs to be done quickly: Biolytix Express Tests

Thanks to our highly sensitive analyses, we can also verify the labeling of products as gluten-free or lactose-free or free from nuts. – A crucial factor for the correct declaration of food products.

ELISA ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is a laboratory technique used to detect specific molecules such as proteins, antibodies, or antigens in a sample. The test is based on the binding between an antigen and a specific antibody, where an enzyme is coupled to the antibody producing a measurable reaction. This reaction, often a color change, indicates whether the target molecule is present in the sample and in what quantity. Real-time PCR Real-Time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a method for the amplification and simultaneous quantitative measurement of DNA or RNA in real-time. During PCR, the target molecule is multiplied in several cycles, using fluorescent probes that emit measurable fluorescence when they bind to the amplified target. The fluorescence is monitored in real-time, allowing the amount of the target molecule to be tracked and quantified throughout the entire amplification process. Enzymatic / Amperometric Enzymatic detection is a method in which enzymes are used to detect the presence of specific substances in a sample. An enzyme reacts with a specific substrate that produces a measurable product through the enzymatic reaction, often a color change or fluorescence. This reaction allows for the determination of the concentration of the target substance in the sample. Amperometric detection is a method in which the electric current is measured that is produced through the oxidation or reduction of a specific analyte at an electrode. The concentration of the analyte is determined based on the change in current, which is proportional to the amount of the detected substance. This technique is often used in biosensor applications to quickly and accurately measure chemical or biological substances in samples.

Do you need analyses for international trade to detect allergens that are relevant outside of Switzerland and the EU? Feel free to contact us.

Good to know: Allergen labeling requirements

In Switzerland, 14 allergens and triggers for intolerances must be labeled according to the Food Information Regulation (LIV), and in the EU according to Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 (LMIV).

This applies to packaged and unpackaged foods in all trade areas, as well as in restaurants, bakeries, and market stalls. The labeling must be clear and easily visible, and can be provided in written, oral, or electronic form, as long as the information is accessible to consumers at all times.

Allergens with labeling obligation

Allergen labeling is mandatory in Switzerland for the following products and products derived from them

    ● Gluten
    ● Egg
    ● Fish
    ● Peanut
    ● Soy
    ● Milk
    ● Celery
    ● Mustard
    ● Sesame
    ● Sulfur dioxide (Sulfites)
    ● Lupin
    ● Mollusks
    ● Crustaceans
    ● Nuts*

* (almond, hazelnut, walnut, cashew, pecan, Brazil nut, macadamia or Queensland nut, pistachio)

Weitere Allergene

Allergen analyses that are required for special products or relevant for labeling in other countries

    ● Poppy
    ● Rapeseed
    ● Rice
    ● Sunflower
    ● Cotton
    ● Buckwheat
    ● Chickpea
    ● Coconut
    ● Corn

If it needs to be done quickly: Biolytix Express Testing

With various EXPRESS variants, we can examine time-critical food within a few hours for batch release or clarification in case of illness. Our customer portal allows you to quickly place orders and manage results clearly.

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Allergens

Biolytix: Commitment to Safety and Quality

Our commitment to food safety does not begin and end with the analysis. To meet the specific requirements in allergen management, Biolytix offers individual consulting and tailored solutions for producers, traders, and restaurateurs. Together, we strengthen the trust of customers and consumers in the products.

Do you have specific questions? – We examine and develop suitable testing systems for your investigations. For instance, we can check products for sufficient heating during processing. Biolytix has developed a testing system to detect unwanted residual activities of lectins from legumes in food, as lectins in insufficiently processed form can also lead to intolerances.

Through our customer portal, we provide transparent information – from order processing to live tracking of your sample to your analysis results.

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Your Contact to us

Kontaktformular E - Allergene (#10)