New buckwheat allergen test

Monday, 06 June 2011 12:21

Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL) in the UK has validated a new test for detecting buckwheat protein in food products. The ELISA method has been validated in several matrices including potato, maize and wheat flour, biscuits, cakes, sunflower oil and several highly acidic and salty products.

The detection limit of the kit is reported to be 2.5mg/kg of buckwheat flour protein. While buckwheat is not on the European list of allergens that must be declared by food manufacturers, it is a common food allergen in Korea and Japan that does require labelling.