ELISA testing is an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method used in food laboratories to detect and quantify specific proteins, toxins or adulterants by exploiting antibody-antigen binding, making it a standard screening tool for allergens and mycotoxins.
In trade practice
In food and agri trade, ELISA is commonly used to screen for allergen cross-contact, aflatoxins, and honey adulteration markers such as foreign sugars. Accredited third-party laboratories run ELISA as a high-throughput first-pass method, with positive or borderline results typically confirmed by PCR or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Buyers should check that the ELISA kit used is validated for the specific matrix, as performance varies between grain, nut and processed-food substrates. Results are reported as concentration values, and the test certificate should state the kit reference, detection limit and laboratory accreditation number.
In a specification
A testing plan or purchase contract may specify ELISA as the required screening method for defined analytes, naming the validated kit or standard method and the action threshold that triggers confirmatory testing.