- Food Allergen Testing
- Mycotoxin & Contaminant Testing
- Authenticity and Adulteration
- GMO Detection
- Histamine Testing
- HACCP, Training & Consultancy
- Free Consultancy Service
Research & Development
The production, processing and labelling of foodstuffs, both for human consumption and animal feed, are governed by a mass of laws, regulations and codes of practice that are constantly changing. We aim to keep abreast of new developments and provide information and links that you will find useful.
Our experienced team of scientists are specialists in molecular biology and are able to develop diagnostic tests in response to these industry changes. We are able to provide services in addition to those detailed within this site, whether or not related to food safety, to meet your own requirements.
Honey
New rules on GM labelling and authorisations for honey on sale within the EU may be on their way. Although strongly debated and contested, news reports suggest that honey produced from pollen originating from GM sources will need to be identified and authorised before it can be sold within the EU. Previously honey has been excempt due to the difficulties in identifying GM within this type of sample and also the expectation that any pollen remaining in the food will contain so little GM material that it would either be undetectable or without risk. These rules look set to change and the web is awash with reports and arguments for and against.
At Genon Laboratories we have worked to develop a test which enables DNA to be extracted from any pollen in the honey and tested for GM content. Honey has typically caused complications in DNA based analyses however these have now been resolved with a new procedure and Genon is ready to offer the test to clients wanting to verify GM status of their sample. Please contact us for more information and prices.
Lactose & HPLC
In the near future Genon Laboratories will be investing in HPLC technology. This will enable us to extend our range of services whilst maintaining our objective of offering specialist analytical services with high quality and exceptional technical support and service.
First on the list will be a sensitive lactose test for a wide range of sample types - with the intention of accrediting the test with UKAS early in 2012. We also plan to offer more comprehensive mycotoxin analysis and introduce tests for shellfish toxins. The R&D schedule is client-driven and so if you have suggestions for tests you would like to see us offer using these methods then please contact us.
Tomato
The Genon scientific team are pleased to announce we have a fully validated DNA-based tomato test for qualitative detection of the food allergen tomato. This test is very sensitive with a limit of detection of 0.001% (10ppm) and can be performed on raw materials, finished and processed foods and swabs. The test is available on our standard 3-day turnaround for PCR tests. Please contact us for more details or a quotation.
DNA Quantitation
We are currently working on a number of quantitative DNA tests including GMO and meat speciation and hope to bring some of these onto our UKAS schedule of accredication during 2012. Roundup Ready Soya, CaMV35s and NOSt are available now on some sample types. For prices, turnaround or to request a test please contact us. If you wish to discuss a test in development or initiative validation of a particular test please let us know.
Please contact us on 01422 884287 or by email enquiries@genonlabs.co.uk should you wish to discuss our R&D programme further.
