Food testing equipment manufacturer R-Biopharm Rhône has launched a new food safety testing kit in anticipation of new European legislation for toxins in oats.
The new lateral flow test will reveal the presence of tiny quantities of the T-2 and HT-2 mycotoxins, which are produced by mould that develops on cereals in the field, especially during wet and cold conditions. It is expected that the European Union (EU) will shortly conclude a period of consideration on safe levels of T-2 and HT-2 by passing new legislation to prevent the toxins from being excessively present.
Described as “similar to a pregnancy test”, the kit will help to prevent the alimentary toxic aleukia and other organ-related symptoms that results from T-2 and HT-2, as well as the high economic losses associated with it among cattle. When a sample is placed on a test strip, the presence or absence of the toxin is indicated by a simple yes-or-no result.
R-Biopharm Rhône UK sales manager Derek Findleton said: “The kit is designed to be easy to use and to deliver a clear result. We see it being of significant use to farmers, grain mills and food producers where there is perhaps not an in-depth scientific capability.”
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