Peanut Butter Recall Highlights the Importance of Aflatoxin Testing
A major peanut butter recall in South Africa has once again drawn attention to the risks posed by aflatoxins — toxic compounds produced by mould that can contaminate peanuts and other crops. In early February 2026, the National Consumer Commission (NCC) announced a voluntary recall of selected ButtaNutt peanut butter products after routine internal testing detected aflatoxin levels significantly above the legally permitted limit. ncc The affected products, made on 15 January 2026 and carrying various mid‑2027 best‑before dates, were distributed across several provinces including Gauteng, KwaZulu‑Natal, the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.iol In addition to South African markets, there are concerns
Nuts and Food Safety: Why Rigorous Testing Matters
Nuts are enjoyed worldwide and play an important role in many diets. From breakfast cereals and protein bars to bakery products and premium confectionery, almonds, peanuts, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews are valued for their nutritional benefits. They are rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support heart health and overall wellbeing. However, alongside these benefits, nuts also present specific food safety challenges. Due to the way they are grown, harvested, processed, and stored, nuts require strict testing and continuous monitoring to ensure they are safe for consumers. Effective food safety testing is essential to protect public health and maintain
Rising Mycotoxin Risks in a Warming Europe
As Europe's climate warms and humidity levels rise, the spread of harmful mycotoxins is becoming an increasing concern for food safety and public health. According to the European Environment Agency (EEA) briefing Mycotoxin exposure in a changing European climate [March 2025], the changing climate is creating favourable conditions for mycotoxin-producing fungi to thrive, leading to increased contamination of staple food crops. This growing threat requires a coordinated European response to mitigate health risks and prevent food supply disruptions. The implications of this issue extend beyond agriculture, affecting human health, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. What are Mycotoxins? Mycotoxins are toxic compounds naturally
Antimicrobial Resistance and Antibiotic Resistance in the Food Industry: A Growing Concern
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antibiotic resistance are among the most significant global public health threats of the 21st century. While these issues are often framed within the healthcare context, they have profound implications for the food industry. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in food production, particularly in livestock farming, are major drivers of resistance development. At Biorex Food Diagnostics, we focus on R&D to create innovative solutions that meet market needs. Our products are manufactured to the highest standards, ensuring the food and feed supply chain remains free from antibiotics and contaminants. Our ELISA kits enable rapid and reliable detection
Honey Month 2024 – Honey’s “everlasting” expiry date?
Honey has been recognized as one of the most valuable natural products throughout history. Its uses extend beyond nutrition, playing important roles in traditional medicine and as alternative treatments for various health conditions. So it’s no surprise that the global honey market size was valued at US$9.01b in 2022 and is expected to grow, with revenue amounting to US$82.78m in 2024. But this industry owes it success to its makers — honeybees. There are at least 300 known types of honey today and more than 20,000 honeybee species that determine the composition of the honey. But does honey ever spoil? The chemical process carried out
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024
International Day of Women and Girls in Science Sunday 11th February marks International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day celebrates the achievements and contributions of women and girls in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This day recognises the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in the scientific community. Ahead of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we have interviewed Nicola Kane, the R&D Manager here at Biorex Food Diagnostics (BFD), to share her experiences in science. Why did you pursue a career in STEM? From an early age I
Tea and Coffee: Day 12 – 12 Days of Food Safety
Day 12: Tea and Coffee 12 Days of Food Safety After all the hustle and bustle of the festive season there is no better way of relaxing after a busy day than sitting down to a cup of tea or coffee. Some of the highest tea consumption per capita globally include Turkey, Ireland, UK, Pakistan and Iran (1). While the Scandinavian nations, including Finland, Norway, Iceland, Denmark, and Sweden, opt for enjoying coffee during designated breaks. This is referred to as "kaffepause," and holds special significance (2). Where did Tea and Coffee originate from? Tea is believed to have originated in China. According to
Cookies and Biscuits: Day 11 – 12 Days of Food Safety
Day 11: Cookies and Biscuits 12 Days of Food Safety During the festive season, many of us indulge in our beloved biscuits such as classic Christmas cookies, traditional shortbread, or even engaging in crafting intricate gingerbread houses with our family. While our recent focus on food safety has involved examining the typical ingredients present in these treats such as flour, sugar, and fats like butter or oil, we’ve specifically examined these components to identify potential risks associated with presence of toxins like pesticides and mycotoxins, exploring available technologies to detect and measure them accurately. Yet, when we combine the different elements of
Stocking Fillers: Day 10 – 12 Days of Food Safety
Day 10: Stocking Fillers 12 Days of Food Safety A stocking filler refers to a small gift or item that is traditionally placed inside a holiday stocking. It’s a small, often inexpensive, and thoughtful present that adds joy and surprise to the holiday tradition. Stocking fillers are delightful, especially when they include tasty treats. Here are some food-related ideas that are perfect for filling up the stockings: Chocolate: Small chocolate bars, truffles, chocolate-covered nuts, or festive-shaped chocolates are always a hit. Assorted nuts: Packs of mixed nuts, candied nuts, or flavoured nuts can be a savoury tradition. Dried fruits: Mini packs of
Honey: Day 9 – 12 Days of Food Safety
Day 9: Honey 12 Days of Food Safety Honey is a versatile and popular ingredient in many festive meals. It adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavour to a variety of dishes, making it a common choice for holiday recipes. From delicately glazing roast meats like ham and turkey, to enhancing the flavour of side dishes such as parsnips and carrots, the magic of honey unveils itself in a caramelized exterior, bestowing a delightful blend of sweet and savoury notes to every dish. Yet, honey is more than just a culinary delight; it's a natural elixir with a multitude of health benefits. Ranging