Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. has announced that AOAC INTERNATIONAL has approved Bio-Rad’s iQ-Check Aspergillus Real-Time PCR Detection Kit for the detection of four hazardous Aspergillus species (A. flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger, and A. terreus) in cannabis flower (10 grams) and both non-solvent- and solvent-based cannabis concentrates (5 grams).

The iQ-Check Aspergillus Real-Time Detection Kit is validated by the AOAC Research Institute under the Performance Tested Method Program. To obtain the validation, a study was performed that resulted in no significant difference between the iQ-Check Aspergillus method and the reference method. The kit was evaluated on parameters such as robustness, product consistency, stability, inclusivity and exclusivity, and matrix studies. In addition, Bio-Rad’s iQ-Check Free DNA Removal Solution was validated as part of the workflow for testing cannabis flower.

The fast and accurate test uses a simple workflow that includes gene amplification and real-time PCR detection. After enrichment and DNA extraction, the test harnesses the sensitivity and specificity of Bio-Rad’s PCR technology to perform real-time PCR. Then, Bio-Rad’s CFX Manager IDE Software automatically generates and analyzes the results.

Three other kits recently received AOAC approval for cannabis flower matrix, including the iQ-Check Salmonella II and iQ-Check STEC VirX and SerO II PCR Detection Kits, solidifying Bio-Rad’s cannabis microbial testing product portfolio.

To learn more about the iQ-Check Aspergillus Real-Time Detection Kit and Bio-Rad’s complete range of iQ-Check real-time PCR test kits for cannabis microbial testing, use the 'request information' button below or visit www.bio-rad.com/cannabis.