Kiwi fruit is now considered as one of the most serious allergens not currently included on the labelling list of the European Directive 2003/89/EC, which is due to take effect from 25 November 2005
Reading Scientific Services (RSSL) has added kiwi fruit to the list of allergens that it can detect by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) methods.
Kiwi fruit is now considered as one of the most serious allergens not currently included on the labelling list of the European Directive 2003/89/EC, which is due to take full effect from 25 November 2005.
Using PCR, RSSL can detect traces of kiwi fruit down to 10mg/kg (10ppm) levels.
Even at these low levels an allergic response in sensitive individuals can range from oral allergy syndrome (OAS) and urticaria (nettle-rash) through to dysphagia, nausea and vomiting.
In a small percentage of highly sensitive individuals, it may cause severe life threatening anaphylaxis.
Kiwi fruit allergy is more common in adults than in children, but clinical studies have demonstrated that sensitisation can occur in early childhood, often on the first known exposure.
RSSL can now analyse food and ingredient samples for a wide range of allergens.
The company is continuing to expand the list but already believes that it can test for more allergens than any other lab in Europe.
Anyone requiring more information on European Directive 2003/89/EC and its implications for the food industry may be interested in attending a half day seminar in Reading on 5 October 2005 organised by RSSL Food Training.
"There is still some confusion about what's going to be required," says Simon Flanagan, RSSL's allergen consultant.
"The seminar will provide a timely reminder of the main points of the new regulations and will address the key clinical, regulatory and analytical issues."
