Gluten/gliadin allergen assay (PCR)

Gluten is a protein complex found in many grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. One of its main components, gliadin, is particularly implicated in the immune responses associated with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. The detection and quantification of gluten allergens are major challenges for the food and nutraceutical industries, especially for products intended for consumers with gluten intolerance or those wishing to adopt a gluten-free diet. Accurate gliadin measurement ensures the safety of food formulations and compliance with regulatory claims.

Analytical method: PCR for the detection of gluten allergens

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a highly sensitive molecular biology technique used to detect the presence of specific DNA associated with 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 used to detect food allergens and contaminants, such as HPLC or mass spectrometry (MS/MS), by providing increased sensitivity at very low detection thresholds.

Industrial applications and compliance issues

PCR testing for gluten/gliadin allergens is particularly important for:

• The agri-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, complementing analyses targeting other allergens and contaminants.

Matrices involved in the analysis

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

Importance of traceability and regulatory compliance

European and international regulations mandate strict labeling for products containing gluten. PCR testing allows for: verifying the compliance of products labeled "gluten-free" with the 20 ppm threshold defined by 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 for 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 over 200 partner laboratories in France and Europe, selected for their scientific expertise and accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.). Each request is analyzed to propose the most suitable method based on the client's matrices and objectives. Our digital platform allows you to centralize your analytical needs: request a quick quote, track samples online, and receive results within optimized timeframes. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have trusted us to guarantee the safety and compliance of their products.

Take action

Are you developing a range of gluten-free products or do you want 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.