Multiplex real-time PCR using SYBR® GreenER™ for the detection of DNA allergens in food

We describe the development of a six-target realtime multiplex PCR assay with the SYBR(R) GreenER(TM) fluorescent dye, targeted to genes encoding for allergenic proteins commonly present in many processed food products (patent application pending). The assay was successfully trialled on reconstructed food matrices and on a range of commercial foodstuffs, and is proposed as a ready-to-use analytical tool for food manufacturers to detect the presence or confirm the absence of sequences encoding for important allergenic proteins of plant origin.