Press Releases
VICAM ANNOUNCES NEW QUANTITATIVE TEST FOR DON
Positive field reception expected based on greater speed, precision, and accuracy
Watertown, MA (September 14, 1998) — VICAM, world leader in agricultural biotechnology and bioseparations, has introduced a new fluorescence test product for DON (vomitoxin). This new test, DONtest TAG™, further demonstrates VICAM’s leadership and depth in the mycotoxin testing marketplace. VICAM prides itself on developing rapid, accurate, easy-to-use tests which give precise numerical results. VICAM is known internationally for its rapid mycotoxin and microbiological testing systems for the food and feed industries. VICAM also provides tests for mold in fruits and vegetables and tests for alpha-amylase in wheat and flour. VICAM has an additional line of separations technologies for their veterinary reproductive platform.
Dr. Barb Cohen, Vice President of Research and Development at VICAM, explains, "DONtest TAG uses a new technology proprietary to VICAM to measure DON with greater speed, precision, and accuracy than is possible with other technologies. DONtest TAG is a welcome addition to what is now a very broad mycotoxin test product line, backed by outstanding customer service and technical support."
About DON
Deoxynivalenol (DON), also called vomitoxin, demonstrates
its impact on the livestock industry through interference with animal
growth and acceptance of feed. DON has been implicated in moldy corn
toxicosis of swine and may play a role in the human disease alimentary
toxic aleukia. In this disease, impaired immune function, hemorrhage
and digestive disorders are among the symptoms. Because of concerns
about DON, many customers require levels of less than 2 ppm for animal
feed and 1 ppm for commodities destined for human consumption. In terms
of its incidence, Dr. Cohen explains, "DON is often present along
with other mycotoxins and has been isolated from grains and feeds throughout
most of the world."
Dr. Terry Mabbett, a consultant in animal production based in the UK, speaks to the way climatic changes have influenced the prevalence of DON. "With the increasing unpredictability of seasonal weather patterns and the occurrence of DON in both wheat and corn in an increasingly wider geographic region, more regular testing is the order of the day. The new on-site testing capability for rapid measurement offers the speed, accuracy, and versatility the feed industry needs."
Advantages of DONtest TAG
DONtest TAG offers the user the unique benefit of
being able to run a variety of samples in either single or multiple
batches. Taking approximately 20 minutes after extraction, this new
test also lends itself to use in conditions where an immediate result
is essential. For example, at a grain elevator, a flourmill, or a malt
house, DONtest TAG can run a sample immediately as it comes from a
truck or train probe and provides a result before sample is routed
to storage. In addition to its speed, sensitivity, and accuracy, this
new test for the detection of DON provides a quantitative result using
the same equipment as VICAM’s other mycotoxin tests.
Availability and Pricing
DONtest TAG is available for purchase immediately
and pricing information may be obtained by contacting VICAM.
About VICAM
VICAM is a world leader in agricultural biotechnology
and bioseparations. VICAM delivers improved animal reproductivity,
increased agricultural productivity, and safeguarded food quality with
patented bioseparations and detection products worldwide. Their products
include detection, measurement, and separations technologies for veterinary
reproductive applications, foodborne carcinogens, and living cells.
To date, VICAM has applied its technologies to 18 products and 3 prototypes.
VICAM supports a global scientific and distribution presence to develop,
market, sell, and service their products in 98 countries worldwide.
For more information, contact Jennifer Smith at VICAM, 313 Pleasant
Street, Watertown, MA 02472 U.S.A.
All VICAM products are protected by worldwide patents and trademarks.
Contact:
Jennifer Smith
Manager of Corporate Communications
VICAM
Tel: +1.617.926.7045
Fax: +1.617.923.8055