Screening for Coccidiostats

Feed additives are important in modern agriculture and a focus of the European Union (EU) framework. Whilst such products are used to improve the characteristics of feed, any company wanting to use feed additives for the EU market must obtain prior authorisation, during which the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) evaluates the safety and efficacy of each additive. The European legislation on animal feed ensures that feedstuffs are suitable for human and animal consumption, whilst not damaging the environment.

Coccidiosis is a disease caused by coccidian, which multiplies in the intestines. In the acute form death of a bird can occur in five to seven days, whilst the chronic type does not kill immediately but persists for a long period of time. To prevent infection, farmers may administer prophylactic antiprotozoal coccidiostats in feed, which increases the chance that coccidiostat residues are retained in both poultry meat and eggs.

However, coccidiostat levels in poultry have increased significantly over the past 3-4 years, causing concern among various groups including Save Our Antibiotics. To reduce the risk of toxicity to consumers, regulatory authorities have set Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) recommending an appropriate withdrawal period prior to slaughter.

The Randox Food Diagnostics coccidiostats array utilises Biochip Array Technology to quantitatively test for multiple analytes including lasalocid, nicarbazin and imidocarb simultaneously. Revolutionising screening practices, Biochip Array Technology is designed to work across a wide variety of matrices and provides up to 44 results in under 3 hours, saving the user both time and money compared to other screening methods.

For more information on our extensive test menu and coccidiostats array email us directly at: info@randoxfooddiagnostics.com