The state-of-the-art technique.

The state-of-the-art technique for detecting allergen residues is the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Several ELISA test kits have become available on the commercial market for detecting food allergens in raw materials, on equipment and in finished products. Not all of the kits on the market are designed with detection limits appropriate for allergen residues. Various kits require differing degrees of technical expertise. Assay kits should be extensively validated using a wide variety of food matrices. ELISA testing for allergens has a definite place in allergen control plans. These test kits can be used in reducing the risk of consumer injury and product recall. Contact: Susan Hefle, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, 351 Food Industry Building, Lincoln, NE 68583. Phone: [phone]. Fax: [phone]. Email: [e-mail].