Gluten/gliadin allergen assay (PCR)

Gluten is a protein complex found in many cereals such as wheat, barley, and rye. One of its main fractions, gliadin, is particularly involved in immune reactions associated with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. The detection and quantification of gluten allergens are major challenges for the food and nutraceutical industries, particularly for products intended for consumers with intolerances or those wishing to adopt a gluten-free diet. Accurate gliadin measurement helps secure food formulation and ensure compliance with regulatory claims.

Analytical method: PCR for the detection of gluten allergens

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a highly sensitive molecular biology technique for detecting the presence of specific DNA linked to gluten allergens. This approach offers several advantages: detection at very low concentrations, targeted identification of gliadin and other gluten proteins, and compliance with current standards for labeling "gluten-free" products. PCR complements other analytical methods applied to the detection of food allergens and contaminants, such as HPLC or mass spectrometry (MS/MS), by providing increased sensitivity for very low detection limits.

Industrial applications and compliance issues

Gluten/gliadin allergen assay by PCR is particularly important for:

• The food industry : securing product ranges labeled “gluten-free,” including flours, pasta, breads, biscuits and fermented drinks.
• Animal nutrition : controlling the presence of gluten in formulations intended for sensitive animals.
• The nutraceutical sector : validating the conformity of food supplements and plant extracts claimed to be “gluten free”.
• Research and quality control : detecting cross-contamination during food processing and packaging.

This service is part of a food safety approach, complementary to analyses targeting other allergens and contaminants.

Matrices affected by the analysis

The PCR method is applicable to a wide variety of matrices: agricultural raw materials (wheat, barley, rye), flours and semolina, processed products (bread, pasta, biscuits, snacks), fermented beverages (beers, spirits), plant extracts and food supplements. Each matrix requires a specific preparation to ensure reliable and standard-compliant detection.

Importance of traceability and regulatory compliance

European and international regulations require strict labeling of products containing gluten. PCR testing allows: verifying compliance of products labeled "gluten-free" with the 20 ppm threshold defined by the regulations, identifying cross-contamination in production chains, ensuring complete traceability from raw materials to finished products, and strengthening consumer and distributor confidence. These requirements are comparable to those of other contaminant and additive controls, such as bisphenol A in packaging or adjuvants in food and cosmetic formulations.

YesWeLab's expertise in gluten allergen analysis

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of more than 200 partner laboratories in France and Europe, selected for their scientific expertise and accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.). Each request is studied to propose the most suitable method based on the client's matrices and objectives. Thanks to our digital platform, you can centralize your analytical needs: request a quick quote, track samples online, and receive results within optimized timeframes. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and design offices have trusted us to guarantee the safety and compliance of their products.

Take action

Are you developing a gluten-free product line or would you like to verify the compliance of your food formulations? Entrust your samples to YesWeLab for reliable and accurate detection of gluten/gliadin allergens. Request a quote online now for your PCR analysis.