US-based Life Technologies, in partnership with Instituto de Medicina Genómica (IMEGEN), Spain, has developed the RapidFinder Equine ID Kit, which detects the presence of equine DNA extracted in meat samples.
The kit can be used in all Applied Biosystems Real-Time PCR Instruments. It features RapidFinder Equine ID Kit, which provides all the reagents required for 48 reactions. The detection limit is 0.01% (w/w) in fresh meat and includes a positive control consisting of 0.1% horse DNA.
The kit also features RapidFinder Quant Equine Set, which has a quantification limit of 0.05% (w/w) and includes the standard for quantification.
Life Technologies Animal Health & Food Safety vice president and general manager Nir Nimrodi said that the company recognizes the importance of public confidence in knowing that the meat on the plate is safe to eat and is exactly what it says on the label.
"The RapidFinder Equine ID Kit is fast and accurate and will identify the presence of horse DNA from sample to result in the same day and will provide improved traceability and control within the food supply chain," Nimrodi added.
The RapidFinder Equine ID Kit is available in Europe, Middle East & Africa and via Life Technologies distributors according to local regulatory requirements.
In addition to customized PCR assays and reagents, Life Technologies also provides testing kits for other meat products such as pork. The company also offers RapidFinder STEC Detection Workflow, which is a complete, validated screening system for E. coli O157:H7 and the six non-O157 STECs.
Life Technologies is a global biotechnology company which provides solutions for translational research, molecular medicine and diagnostics, stem cell-based therapies, forensics, food safety and animal health.
