COLUMBIA FOOD LABORATORIES

New Tests Added for Mycotoxins (mold toxins)

January 2009 -- CFL has added new tests for deoxynivalenol (also known as DON or vomitoxin), fumonisins, ochratoxin A, and zearalenone (also known as ZEN or ZON). Deoxynivalenol is a metabolite of Fusarium molds and occurs predominantly in grains and cereals. It can cause toxicosis in humans and farm animals. The USA FDA has set an upper limit of 1 ppm deoxynivalenol in food for humans. Fumonisins are a group of toxins also produced by Fusarium molds. Corn and corn derived products (e.g., chips and tortillas) are the most common sources of fumonisins. FDA has set upper limits for fumonisins at 2 ppm to 4 ppm, depending on the type of product. Ochratoxin A is produced by certain species of the genera Aspergillus and Penicillium. It occurs most commonly in cereals but can occur even in animal tissues and milk. More data is needed in order to set meaningful upper limits, however, Codex has set the limit at 5 ppb for human food. FDA has not set an upper limit, yet. Zearalenone is produced by Fusarium molds and commonly occurs in grains, even in climates with lower temperatures. Due to a lack of reliable toxicology data, a scientifically-based international upper limit for zearalenone has not been determined, however, several countries have set limits ranging from 30 ppb to 1000 ppb. FDA has not set an upper limit.

Unless otherwise requested, we use ELISA technology to determine these mycotoxins. Current ELISA assays are reliable, sensitive and cost effective for our clients. Alternatively, HPLC/MS methodology may be used instead of ELISA, however, at a higher cost.

For More Information Contact:

Columbia Food Laboratories, Inc.
Corbett, Oregon USA
Tel: 1-503-695-2287
Internet: info@columbiafoodlab.com