BioControl Systems, Inc. is pleased to announce the immediate availability of FLASH, a total protein visual test that rapidly detects protein residues (including potentially allergenic material) left on product contact surfaces after cleaning. When used regularly as part of an integrated HACCP program, FLASH can help minimize the risk of cross-contamination to allergen-free product, and reduce the opportunity for overall biological contamination. Each FLASH device has the ability to detect at two sensitivity levels (20 µg when tested at room temperature; 3 µg in high temperature incubation) making it easy for QA managers to manage risks and support rapid production change-overs.
According to the Food Allergy Research and Resource Program (FARRP) at the University of Nebrasksa-Lincoln, there are eight major allergenic foods, referred to as the “Big 8”, which account for 90% of all food allergies in the United States. These foods are: milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat and soybean. They may be processed in common manufacturing plants, thereby creating the potential for cross-contamination.