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10-Feb-2006 - From field to fork – new veterinary drug residue reference materials

Seven new reference materials for antibiotics testing in animal products now available from LGC Promochem

LGC Promochem, Europe’s leading supplier of certified reference materials, is pleased to announce the launch of seven new reference materials from the Institute of Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM) intended for validating methods of analysis for veterinary residue testing in pig and salmon tissues and related products.

In accordance with Council Regulation (EEC) 2377/90, veterinary drugs that are used to prevent or treat disease in food-producing animals must be evaluated in terms of the toxicity of potential residues that may accumulate in animal tissues and subsequently find their way into food products affecting consumer health. Where necessary maximum residue limits (MRLs) are established.  Six of the new reference materials, BCR-695 to 698 and BCR-706 to 707, are intended for use in testing porcine kidney, liver and muscle for chlortetracycline, a commonly used antibiotic for growth promotion and the treatment and prophylaxis of respiratory disease in pigs.

The seventh, BCR-725, is specific for testing salmon tissue for flumequine and oxolinic acid, two quinolones frequently used in aquaculture against furunculosis, enteric redmouth disease, pseudotuberculosis and vibrosis.  Some of the new reference materials are blanks while the remainder are residue-incurred samples and all are accompanied by a comprehensive Certificate of Analysis.

The European Commission must co-ordinate and set standards with respect to methods of analysis and data quality.  One way it does this is by funding the development of certified matrix reference materials. The IRMM is one of seven institutes of the Joint Research Centre (JRC), a Directorate-General of the European Commission, and one of the world’s largest reference material producers. It is also an expert in food safety, quality and bioanalysis, and a valued provider of reference measurement data. 

LGC Promochem is an authorised distributor for reference materials produced by IRMM and holds a comprehensive stock of BCR and IRMM materials in purpose built storage facilities under carefully controlled and monitored conditions.

The new reference materials form part of a growing portfolio of reference materials and standards are available from LGC Promochem for use with the testing of veterinary residues in animal products intended for human consumption.

For full details of the new reference standards please go to the LGC Promochem website at www.lgcpromochem.com.


Notes to Editors