"These improvements to our Veratox for Fumonisin test procedures are examples of Neogen doing whatever we can to make the testing process faster and easier for our customers," said Neogen´s Bridgett Wynkoop. "Our constant interaction with the grain industry provides a steady stream of feedback on what we might do to improve the process. We´re pleased to report that the feedback we received led directly to the product´s improvements."

The availability of the improved test for fumonisin comes as the need for quick, easy and accurate tests for mycotoxins is more critical than ever. Difficult growing conditions in many regions of North America and Europe have increased the probability that molds that produce mycotoxins may flourish in corn and wheat crops. Rapid mycotoxin testing will help ensure the quality of grain crops as they move from the fields, through transportation, storage and processing operations.

Discovered in 1989, fumonisins are a family of mycotoxins produced by different species of the mold Fusarium. These molds commonly infect corn (in fact, they are considered ubiquitous in corn) and rice, hence the potential for fumonisins to be found in feed and foodstuffs is high. Fumonisins affect various animals differently and have been linked to esophageal cancer in humans. The Environmental Protection Agency classifies fumonisins as category II-B carcinogens.