Eurofins' Allergen Detection Method Proven More Efficient over Existing Popular Methodology

LUXEMBOURG --(Business Wire)--

Eurofins (Paris:ERF) once again demonstrated its scientific expertise following the validation of its LC-MS/MS allergen detection method as technically superior to the widely-used PCR (News - Alert) and ELISA methods especially in processed products.

In 2010, scientists at Eurofins developed a method that allows detection allergenic compounds at very low levels using mass spectrometry. In a recent peer-reviewed article published in the Journal AOAC¹, comparative tests showed that the ELISA method failed to detect large quantities of egg, milk and soya in bread. These allergens have been found to cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. On the other hand, the mass spectrometry method developed by Eurofins experts easily detected the allergens, illustrating the benefits of the Group's focus on innovation to consistently improve the analytical services it provides to customers.

In addition, as further recognition of the Group's technical expertise, the European Commission has agreed to fund a European-wide project which includes the Eurofins-developed methodology as one of its core components.

Bert Popping, Director of Molecular Biology and Immunology at Eurofins, comments: "Peer reviewed literature, as well as our own data, demonstrate that the LC-MS/MS method has a superior performance to ELISA and PCR in processed materials. It is very likely that larger quantities of egg, milk and soya remain completely undetected by conventional methods like PCR and ELISA. his development will enable us to help food manufacturers manage risk better, and make their products safer for consumers. "

The allergen detection method is available from Eurofins-On-Line (EOL).

The relevant peer-reviewed papers are available in the Journal of AOAC http://aoac.publisher.ingentaconnect.com/content/aoac/jaoac.

Notes for the editor:
Eurofins - a global leader in bio-analysis
Eurofins Scientific is the world leader in food and pharmaceutical products testing. It is also number one in the world in the field of environmental laboratory services and one of the global market leaders in agroscience, genomics and central laboratory services.

With over 12,500 staff in more than 170 laboratories across 33 countries, Eurofins offers a portfolio of over 100,000 reliable analytical methods for evaluating the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin and purity of biological substances and products. The Group provides its customers with high-quality services, accurate results in time and expert advice by its highly qualified staff.

Eurofins is committed to pursuing its dynamic growth strategy by expanding both its technology portfolio and its geographic reach. Through R&D and acquisitions, the Group draws on the latest developments in the field of biotechnology and analytical chemistry to offer its clients unique analytical solutions and the most comprehensive range of testing methods.

As one of the most innovative and quality oriented international players in its industry, Eurofins is ideally positioned to support its clients' increasingly stringent quality and safety standards and the expanding demands of regulatory authorities around the world.

The shares of Eurofins Scientific are listed on the NYSE Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN FR0000038259, Reuters ERF, Bloomberg (News - Alert) ERF FP).

Important disclaimer:

This press release contains forward-looking statements and estimates that involve risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements and estimates contained herein represent the judgement of Eurofins Scientific' management as of the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees for future performance, and the forward-looking events discussed in this release may not occur. Eurofins Scientific disclaims any intent or obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements and estimates. All statements and estimates are made based on the data available to the Company as of the date of publication, but no guarantee can be made as to their validity.