Press Releases
VICAM TO INTRODUCE TOMATO MOLD TEST
New test provides accurate measurement of the total mold in tomato products
WATERTOWN, MA (February 2, 2001) — VICAM, a world leader in agricultural biotechnology and bioseparations, is nearing completion in the development of a rapid assay test to determine the total mold present in raw and processed tomato products. The new test, MoldQuant-T™, provides accurate numerical data for the measurement of the total mold present in raw and processed tomato products. 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 a test for alpha-amylase in wheat and flour and has an additional line of separations technologies for their veterinary reproductive platform.
Tomato Quality
From adverse taste and texture to toxic byproducts,
molds present numerous challenges to food producers worldwide. The
tomato industry has long been committed to monitoring and controlling
the presence of mold in order to ensure the highest level of quality
for their products. Laboratory methods have traditionally required
microscopic analysis and manual counts to determine levels of contamination.
One example of such a manual method is the Howard Mold Count, which
is widely accepted by the industry today. VICAM’s MoldQuant-T
eliminates the need for manual counts, allowing laboratories to complete
more work in less time, with an end result of more accurate and precise
data.
MoldQuant-T
MoldQuant-T combines separations science and fluorometric
detection to quantify the total mold present in raw and processed tomato
products. The assay utilizes a specialized separations technique to
bind mold to fluorescent material. The mold then becomes visible with
the use of a fluorometric reader. The test is unique in its ability
to separate mold from the sample matrix, facilitating greater accuracy
and reproducibility than what is currently possible with other methods.
The assay requires just three minutes of hands-on technician time.
Numeric results are printed and displayed simultaneously to simplify
data acquisition and storage.
Tomato Industry Association Meeting Features
MoldQuant-T
VICAM executive Jim Cary met
with growers and processors at the 54th Annual
Meeting of the California Tomato Growers Association
in February. During the meeting Cary discussed
MoldQuant-T and its advantages over current methods,
including its ease of use and consistency between
operators. He also stated that the test is fast,
rugged and affordable. The test is designed to
offer consistency and accuracy at the three levels
where testing is most advantageous–grower,
processor and buyer. Cary added, "We strove
to develop a test that will offer consistency at
all three levels–same test…same measuring
stick…same numbers." MoldQuant-T offers
better accuracy and precision over current manual
count methods. Once the test receives USDA approval,
it will quickly become the new industry standard.
Availability and Pricing
Please contact VICAM or your local distributor for
more information on MoldQuant-T.
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