Press Releases
VICAM Announces New HPLC Test for Citrinin Toxin
Immunoaffinity column precisely measures levels of common grain contaminant
Watertown, MA (July 3, 2007) –– VICAM, a world leader in food safety testing, today announced the addition of CitriTestTM HPLC to its extensive line of mycotoxin test kits. The new quantitative test combines VICAM's patented immunoaffinity columns with state-of-the-art high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technology to accurately measure citrinin levels in grains, nuts, and fruits at levels as low as 10 ppb and as high as 500 ppb. The immunoaffinity columns in the CitriTest HPLC kit use monoclonal antibodies that selectively bind to targeted mycotoxins for simple, rapid sample cleanup. In as little as 10 minutes, citrinin can be isolated from a variety of foodstuffs for HPLC analysis, the test method of choice for precise mycotoxin determination.
Marjorie Radlo, Director of Operations and General Manager of VICAM, notes that the company's latest offering reflects VICAM's deep understanding and broad knowledge of the mycotoxin testing industry, as well as its responsiveness to the changing needs of its customers. "As worldwide concern over naturally occurring contaminants in our food supply rises, the list of mycotoxins subject to government regulation continues to grow," says Radlo. "With citrinin coming under closer scrutiny as a contributing factor in kidney and liver diseases, VICAM anticipated an increased demand for a highly accurate and sensitive method of citrinin analysis."
About Citrinin
Citrinin, a toxic by-product of several species of molds, including Aspergillus ochraceus and Penicillium citrinum, commonly contaminates rice, wheat, flour, barley, corn (maize), rye, oats, peanuts, and fruit. A known cause of kidney and liver disease in livestock, citrinin is also suspected of damaging these organs in humans.
Concern over this potent toxin is particularly high in Asia, where citrinin contamination is widespread in red rice, a staple of many Asian diets. Red rice is also the main ingredient in the popular herbal supplement red yeast rice extract. The Japanese government has established an advisory limit for citrinin of 200 ppb and official regulations are also under consideration in Taiwan, China, and the European Union.
Availability and Pricing
Orders are currently being accepted for CitriTest HPLC. Pricing information can be obtained by contacting VICAM or your local VICAM distributor.
About VICAM
VICAM is a world-leading provider of mycotoxin and microbiological testing solutions. Since 1985, VICAM has been dedicated to developing USDA- and AOAC-approved rapid tests for mycotoxins and foodborne pathogens. VICAM's mycotoxin test kits offer a choice of HPLC or fluorometric detection methods for reliable quantitative detection of a wide variety of mycotoxins. Around the world, VICAM products are used with confidence by customers who trust our commitment to extending the value of those products with unmatched service and support. We guarantee satisfaction with expert technical assistance and top-of-the-line customer care through a global scientific and distribution network that develops, markets, sells, and services our products in more than 100 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.vicam.com or call +1.617.926.7045.