Food Microbiology

Food allergens are mainly proteins that the immune system of allergic individuals mistakenly believes are harmful. Food allergies are typically IgE-mediated, which means that the body produces large amounts of antibodies that specifically target the proteins of certain food products. When these antibodies bind to an allergen, they trigger an allergic reaction, which may range from mild symptoms to a life-threatening anaphylactic shock. As food allergens represent an ever-present risk, it is critical for food producers to conduct routine tests for potential allergen contamination in their products.

Foodborne illness is a serious public health concern around the world. Foods can become contaminated with pathogenic bacteria through exposure to animal manure, inadequate processing controls, cross-contamination, and improper storage or cooking. Production delays, plant shut-downs, food spoilage, brand protection & product recalls cost money. Therefore, cost-effective, easy-to-use, & accurate testing methods are necessary Romer Labs offers validated food pathogen detection solutions for E. coli, Salmonella and Listeria in a user-friendly, rapid, accurate and cost effective format.

Close to 80% of the world`s soybean production is achieved with genetically modified soy and over 30% in the case of maize. The worldwide cultivation of GM plants increases every year by millions of hectares, resulting in the increasing need for tests to detect these traits. Other analytes such as residues, melamine, meat and bone meal and sugars make headlines from time to time and also require testing.To address this issues, Romer Labs provides an extensive portfolio of test kits and analytical services. A complete overview can be found below.