Rapid allergen tests in food production

Why have allergy tests?

To protect consumers, certain requirements must be met in food production Food allergens to keep a close eye on. The Food Information Regulation (LMIV) requires manufacturers to list the 14 major allergens, such as gluten, milk, eggs, peanuts or Soya to clearly label their products.

In order to comply strictly with regulations and effectively prevent cross-contamination, many producers rely on specialised test kits to identify food allergens. Allergen tests make it possible to detect potentially allergenic substances at an early stage and thus manage the risk for people with allergies. Otherwise, they could be exposed to a potentially serious risk, such as anaphylactic shock. On production lines, such test kits can significantly support quality assurance in hygiene management as well as compliance with statutory food safety requirements.

Advantages of rapid tests for detecting food allergens

Rapid allergen tests are diagnostic tests that have been specifically developed to detect the presence of allergens quickly and easily. These tests are therefore used in food production for quality control as part of allergen management and are characterised in particular by the following features:

• Simplicity: Rapid allergen tests are designed so that they can be carried out without the need for complex laboratory equipment. They are user-friendly and can be carried out and analysed directly on site at production facilities.

• Speed: As the name suggests, these tests are characterised by their rapid results. Depending on the test method, the result is displayed after just a few minutes. Tests for detecting food allergens are therefore an effective way of obtaining prompt information about potential allergens.

• A wide range of applications: The test kits can be used for straightforward testing in a variety of areas. These range from monitoring raw materials, through testing cleaning and process water (CIP water) and rinse water, to testing surfaces and finished products.

The tests are therefore an effective tool for improving food safety and protecting consumers from allergic reactions. The rapid allergen tests make it easy to determine whether products are allergen-free or need to be labelled accordingly.

How Allergy Tests Work

Various testing methods can be used to determine whether allergens are present and, if so, which ones. The following two methods, for example, are particularly common.

Lateral flow tests (Lateral Flow Device = LFD) are used for the qualitative detection of allergens and work in a similar way to pregnancy tests. The test strips are based on an antibody-antigen reaction and are easy to use: the sample window of the test strip is filled with a suitable sample. The sample can be obtained using a swab, via suitable liquids or from processed food. It ‘migrates’ along the strip to the area where specific antibodies are fixed. If the molecule in question is present in the sample, it binds to these antibodies – which is visually indicated on the test strip.

If immunochromatographic tests feature hook lines, they also incorporate an effective measure to prevent the so-called ‘high-dose hook effect’. This occurs when a very high concentration of an allergen incorrectly leads to a negative result. Such hook lines improve the safety and reliability of LFD tests by incorporating a feature that accounts for the hook effect and also identifies high allergen levels.

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)

ELISA is not traditionally regarded as a rapid test, as the collection and analysis of samples usually require specialist equipment and expertise – and therefore take time. However, there are now variants available that are significantly less labour-intensive and quicker to carry out.

ELISA is a widely used testing method which, depending on the variant, can be used to determine the presence and concentration of allergens in a relatively short time. The allergen test is also based on the specific binding of antibodies and antigens. The result is measured via a colour reaction. The colour change provides information about the amount of antigen in the sample – which is why ELISA tests are also used for the quantitative determination of allergens.

In addition to conventional testing methods, there are also ELISA tests which can be carried out in just a few simple steps and ensure that samples can be analysed in as little as 30 minutes.

Well-positioned and secure – with Ehlert!

As demand for allergen-free products rises, so too does the need for manufacturers to monitor their processes even more rigorously. Rapid allergen tests help to improve the food safety of products and ensure compliance with legal requirements. Thanks to modern methods such as lateral-flow tests, results can be read directly on site within a very short time. This not only optimises production processes but also boosts consumer confidence – particularly among those with food allergies.

As a supply chain specialist with 100 years’ experience, Gustav Ehlert GmbH is your reliable partner for modern, efficient and safe food production.