Allergen Testing

Food manufacturers must recall thousands of products globally each year and the main reason for this is previously undetected allergens causing cross-contamination during production processes. Allergen testing is one way to avoid this scenario. Many people are subject to allergies and food intolerances and rely on food labelling on the products they see in retail outlets to keep them safe from unpleasant side effects or harmful and potentially fatal reactions. While allergen testing in humans is important in testing for such food intolerances and allergy, it is vital that manufacturers carry out a similar testing regime in the raw materials and finished products they use and supply. Food chemistry laboratories assist with expert food allergen testing for the presence of allergenic foods such as gluten, seafood, nuts, eggs, fish, lactose and sesame seeds. This reduces or eliminates the risk of an undeclared food allergen in products; or allows manufacturers the opportunity of advertising products as safe for those with allergies. As well as testing individual products, allergen testing can be carried out on rinse water and environmental surfaces used in food preparation in factories and other manufacturing units. An allergen testing service is vital for food and drink manufacturers.