Meat Species Testing

Why You Should Test

10 years after the infamous horse meat scandal, the importance of rigorous testing measures to ensure the authenticity and integrity of meat products and swabs has never been more evident. The scandal shook the food industry and shattered consumer confidence, highlighting the need for robust monitoring systems throughout the supply chain.

Meat Species Testing Using DNA Analysis

The test detects target DNA by using specific primers and probes. Specific DNA sequences are amplified by RT-PCR and detected with high specificity. Eurofins offers both ISO17025 accredited techniques for qualitative & semi-quantitative analysis to determine which species are in your products.

Species	LOD	Species	LOD	Species	LOD
Beef	0.1%	Chicken	0.1%	Sheep	0.1%
Pork	0.1%	Turkey	0.1%	Goat	0.1%
Horse	0.1%	Duck	0.1%	Fallow Deer	0.1%

The DNA tests are applicable to various matrices and include raw, processed and cooked product. Methods are also available for analysis of highly processed meats where the DNA may be significantly degraded. With rapid turnarounds and large capacity, we are here to support your business

Immunological techniques such as ELISA, can be used for screening purpose but care must be taken as there may be cross reactivity with non-target meats species or other artefacts. The limit of detection may not be suitable for low levels of meat.

Supporting The Meat Free, Kosher, and Halal Industries

Eurofins also has the capability to screen your products for the presence of mammalian,bird & fish DNA. In tandem with ELISA techniques for Egg, Milk Proteins,Crustacean & Mollusc, and risk assessment support, this testing suite can help to support meat-free claims.

Eurofins also offers a screen for Pig, Horse & Donkey DNA, which can be a useful tool to support Halal claims

For small batches, order our most routine testing from Eurofins Testing in 5 quick and easy steps, including speciation.

For other requirements and more information, please contact our sales team on 0845 604 6740 or make an enquiry.