Allergen dosage

Allergen testing is an essential step to ensure the safety and regulatory compliance of food, cosmetic, and nutraceutical products. This analysis detects the presence of common allergens such as gluten, milk, egg, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and mustard, even in trace amounts. It is crucial for preventing allergic reactions in consumers and complying with European legislation on allergen labeling.

Analyses are performed using reference techniques such as ELISA, quantitative PCR or LC-MS/MS mass spectrometry, depending on the nature of the targeted allergens and the matrix to be analyzed.

Principle and operation of the method

Each detection method has specific advantages:

• ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) : the reference immunological method for the specific measurement of allergenic proteins (milk, egg, peanut, soy, etc.). It is based on antigen-antibody recognition and allows for direct quantification.
• PCR : a molecular technique for detecting DNA sequences characteristic of allergens of plant or animal origin. Ideal for processed products where proteins are denatured.
• LC-MS/MS : a high-precision physicochemical method that allows for the identification and quantification of multiple allergens simultaneously in complex matrices.

These approaches are complementary and can be combined for a comprehensive assessment of allergenic contamination.

Analytical performance and related analyses

Allergen quantification by ELISA, PCR, or LC-MS/MS offers high sensitivity (down to a few ppm) and high specificity. Analyzed matrices include foodstuffs, nutritional supplements, plant powders, cosmetic products, and industrial formulations.

The results obtained confirm the product's compliance with European regulations (EU Regulation No. 1169/2011). These analyses are often combined with other services from the YesWeLab catalog, such as:

• total protein dosage ,
• gluten dosage ,
• the detection of GMOs by PCR ,
• or even global microbiological control for a complete assessment of product quality and safety.

Applications and areas of use

Allergen testing is applicable to various industrial sectors:

• Human food : verification of the conformity of processed products, ingredients, additives or industrial preparations in order to avoid cross-contamination.
• Nutraceuticals : control of the purity of natural extracts and food supplements formulated from plant or animal sources.
• Cosmetics : detection of food-derived protein allergens in dermocosmetic formulations and natural skincare products.
• Animal nutrition : monitoring the presence of potential allergens in formulations of specialized feed for sensitive animals.

The analysis can be supplemented by the measurement of amino acids or total polysaccharides in order to obtain an overall view of the biochemical composition of the product and to identify possible sources of cross-contamination.

The advantages of the YesWeLab service

YesWeLab relies on a network of partner laboratories specializing in physicochemical, molecular, and regulatory analyses, accredited to ISO 17025 and COFRAC. Each project is assigned to a laboratory selected based on the nature of the matrix, the type of allergen being sought, and the most appropriate analytical method.

Thanks to its digital analysis platform, YesWeLab simplifies quote requests, sample tracking, and results delivery. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, formulators, and distributors have entrusted us with their analyses to guarantee product safety and regulatory compliance.

For any specific allergen testing needs, contact our scientific team for a personalized quote and technical support tailored to your requirements.