US-based Neogen has introduced two new histamine detection assays, namely Reveal for Histamine and Reveal Q+ for Histamine.

Using a simple water extraction method, the two easy-to-use, qualitative lateral flow tests offer results within minutes and eliminate the requirement for disposing of chemicals, which is usually seen in other existing detection methods.

Reveal for Histamine is designed to visually screen for histamine in scombroid species of fish, including tuna and mahi-mahi.

It performs screening at the US Food and Drug Administration guidance level of 50 parts per million for the presence of histamine in these fish species.

Reveal Q+ for Histamine uses Neogen’s Raptor integrated analysis platform. It allows for quantitative testing for histamine in scombroid species of fish and dry animal protein.

Neogen president and CEO John Adent said: “These two new tests are an excellent addition to our portfolio of food safety testing solutions, helping keep consumers safe and healthy.

“These rapid tests make it easy for producers and distributors to test for this toxin, backed by Neogen’s reputation for providing accurate and reliable results.”

Fish species can develop high levels of histamine due to bacterial enzyme activity during decomposition and eating certain types of fish with high levels of histamine can lead to scombroid or histamine food poisoning in humans.

Neogen provides several food safety diagnostic test products for foodborne bacteria, food allergens and mycotoxins.

Its mycotoxin test kits can be used to detect deoxynivalenol, ochratoxin, T-2/HT-2, aflatoxin, zearalenone and fumonisin.