Ergot alkaloid assay

Ergot alkaloids are a group of mycotoxins naturally produced by fungi of the genus Claviceps , particularly Claviceps purpurea , which infect grasses such as rye, barley, and wheat. These toxic compounds can cause serious health problems in humans and animals, affecting the nervous and cardiovascular systems, and can lead to hallucinogenic or gangrenous effects with prolonged exposure.

Ergot alkaloid analysis is essential in the cereal, food, nutraceutical, and animal nutrition sectors. This analysis allows for the detection and quantification of these toxins in batches of raw materials or processed products to ensure regulatory compliance and consumer safety.

Why measure ergot alkaloids?

European regulations set strict limits for ergot alkaloids in foodstuffs intended for human and animal consumption. Since EU Regulation 2021/1399, monitoring has been strengthened, with specific thresholds depending on the type of product: raw cereals, bread products, flours, or supplements.

Therefore, the dosage is essential for:

• Quality control of agricultural raw materials (rye, triticale, oats, etc.)
• The release of batches of flour or processed cereal products
• The compliance of plant-based or nutraceutical formulations containing cereal-based extracts
• Prevention of health risks in human and animal food
• Monitoring for fungal contamination during harvesting or storage

Proposed analytical techniques

YesWeLab offers two reference methods, adapted to regulatory requirements and the required detection thresholds:

• HPLC coupled with a UV or fluorimetric detector: standardized method for simple matrices.
• LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry): a highly sensitive method, allowing the simultaneous detection of the main ergot alkaloids (ergocristine, ergocryptine, ergometrine, etc.) at levels below µg/kg, in accordance with European thresholds.

YesWeLab's partner laboratories use protocols validated according to EFSA recommendations and Codex Alimentarius guidelines.

Affected matrices

• Rye, oats, barley, wheat
• Whole grains, flours, brans
• Compound animal feed
• Plant extracts based on grasses
• Nutraceutical or phytotherapeutic products containing cereal raw materials

Sectors concerned

This analysis is particularly requested by:

• Grain mills and processors
• Food processing companies (baking products, specialized nutrition)
• Manufacturers of food supplements or plant extracts
• Animal feed suppliers
• Quality control laboratories and distributors

Further analyses recommended

As part of a comprehensive approach to food safety, YesWeLab recommends combining ergot alkaloid testing with other analyses targeting contaminants or active compounds in plant matrices:

• Aflatoxin B1 assay – for monitoring mycotoxins in flours and cereals
• Zearalenone assay – a common mycotoxin in corn
• Determination of residual pesticides – LC-MS/MS multi-residue method
• Phytic acid (phytate) content – ​​an indicator of the nutritional quality of flours

Why choose YesWeLab for this analysis?

YesWeLab allows you to centralize your analytical needs through a simple and fast digital platform. We connect you with a network of ISO 17025 / COFRAC accredited laboratories, selected for their technical expertise and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Our scientific team supports you in:

• The choice of analytical techniques according to the matrix
• Sample management, from collection to logistics
• Interpreting the results and complying with regulatory thresholds
• The responsiveness of the treatment to quickly release your products

Need an ergot alkaloid assay?

Add this analysis to your quote or contact our scientific team for personalized support and a tailored analytical solution.