Biotoxin Detection

Food safety is a matter of global concern, with biotoxins representing one of the most serious threats to public health and the food industry. Biotoxins are naturally occurring toxic substances produced by molds and fungi, which may contaminate food at different stages of production, storage, or processing. Even at very low concentrations, these toxins can cause severe acute or chronic health effects, including carcinogenic, hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic, and immunosuppressive effects. Effective detection and monitoring of biotoxins are therefore essential to protect consumers, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and maintain the integrity of food supply chains. Alfa Chemistry offers comprehensive biotoxin detection services to ensure food safety. We combine advanced analytical methods with strict quality assurance systems to deliver reliable, accurate, and timely results to food producers, processors, importers, and retailers.

We are capable of testing different types of food matrices:

• Cereals and Grains: Wheat, corn, rice, barley, oats, etc.
• Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, etc.
• Nuts and Seeds: Peanuts, pistachios, almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, etc.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Dried fruits (figs, raisins, apricots), apples, grapes, and many others.
• Meat and Animal Products
• Processed Foods: Bakery products, infant formula, coffee, wine, beer, dietary supplements, etc.

The key biotoxins we test include:

• Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, G2, M1, M2): Among the most dangerous mycotoxins, with aflatoxin B1 classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen.
• Ochratoxin A (OTA): A nephrotoxic and potentially carcinogenic compound often found in cereals, coffee, dried fruits, and wine.
• Zearalenone (ZEN): Known for its estrogenic effects, commonly detected in cereals and grain-based products.
• Deoxynivalenol (DON): Also called vomitoxin, associated with nausea and immune suppression, frequently found in wheat and maize.
• Patulin: Commonly found in apple products, particularly juice and cider.
• Fumonisins (B1, B2): Linked to esophageal cancer and neural tube defects, frequently occurring in maize.
• T-2 Toxin: A trichothecene mycotoxin causing immunotoxicity and gastrointestinal disturbances.
• HT-2 Toxin: A trichothecene closely related to T-2, also harmful to immune and digestive systems.
• Alternaria Toxins (e.g., Alternariol, Tenuazonic Acid): Increasingly recognized as contaminants in fruits, vegetables, and grains, with potential genotoxic effects.
• Citrinin (CIT): A nephrotoxic mycotoxin often co-occurring with ochratoxin A in cereals and fermented foods.
• …

Key instruments and techniques utilized in biotoxin detection services include:

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)

Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)

Rapid Test Kits

Our advantages:

By offering comprehensive biotoxin detection services, Alfa Chemistry enables the food industry to safeguard consumers, maintain brand integrity, and comply with stringent safety standards. From cereals and dairy to processed foods and beverages, our wide-ranging expertise, advanced techniques, and commitment to quality make us a trusted partner in food safety testing.