Validation of ELISA test kits for detection of beta-agonist residues in meat
Ponniah, J.; Muhammad, K.; Abdullah, S.; Ganapathy, K.K.; bt Sheikh Abdul Hamid, N.
Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 35(2): 481-487
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0125-1562 PMID: 15691160 Document Number: 570637
Three ELISA test kits, the Randox ELISA beta-agonist test kit, Euro-Diagnostica test kit, and Ridascreen beta-agonist test kit, were evaluated for screening of meat and liver for beta-agonist residues in fortified and field-incurred samples. It was found that the Randox beta-agonist test kit was more suitable as a screening tool due to its accuracy, ease of use, and lower cost. The tests were able to detect beta-agonist residues at the minimum level of detection, as claimed by the suppliers. The performance of the method as assessed through recovery rates of beta-agonists in fortified samples was satisfactory with a low coefficient of variation (1-3%). Repeatability, as measured through the coefficient of correlation was also satisfactory. For field-incurred positive samples, the test kit showed a sensitivity of 100% and a low rate of false positives for goat and cow tissues. However, a high rate of apparent false positives was obtained for tissues of swine.