The tests bought from ifp are based on the widely-used real-time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) analysis and cover a broad range of molecular targets including genetic, bacterial, viral and other food contaminants. Qiagen said food companies can obtain results within 24 hours.
The tests can be fully automated using Qiagen’s own instruments and the deal means the Dutch-based company said it can offer complete solutions for all major applications in the food safety testing - covering entire workflows from the processing of primary samples to the final testing result.
"With this unique assay portfolio we are laying the foundation for a very strong position in the area of food safety testing and significantly strengthening the area of applied testing overall," said Peer Schatz, Qiagen CEO. "Applied testing represents an important growth area for our company. Here, we are focusing on select segments with a relevant market volume, a growing demand for molecular testing technologies and a high potential for growth.”
Molecular tests, and in particular real-time PCR-based assays, are gaining greater market share as they are faster and more reliable than traditional methods, with results available in less than 24 hours, said the company.