Category: EnviroLogix News

New Flex Product Exceeds 2016 GIPSA Mycotoxin Specifications

Posted on by Brian Harris

The QuickTox testing solutions have been improved to exceed the new 2016 GIPSA mycotoxin specifications. The first Flex kit for mycotoxins is for T-2/HT-2 ; Aflatoxin, DON and Fumonisin will follow, and all are designed to work on the QuickScan system. For more information about T-2/HT-2, check out our knowledgebase.

Flex advantages over the original QuickTox mycotoxin kits:

• Accuracy – test accuracy is improved by eliminating adverse environmental effects
• Time savings – the majority of Flex test kits will feature shorter run times and fewer dilution steps
• Efficiency – test a wider variety of matrices utilizing the same QuickTox Strips
• Wider range – more accurate results across a broader range of test results

Paired with the proprietary software included in the QuickScan system, QuickTox strips quantify mycotoxins in the ranges most important to you.

The dependable QuickTox mycotoxin tests for QuickScan still offer:

• Ease of use – simple procedure, less “shaking,” fewer pipetting steps, and no drying step – read the strips wet!
• Quantification – A unique barcoding system containing lot-specific standard curve data ensures accurate and precise mycotoxin measurement while eliminating the need for calibrators or standards.
• Traceability – Instantaneous data and image storage onto a host PC (or network) means test results can be emailed, printed or analyzed for management decisions at any time.

EnviroLogix Supports Wheat Testing Protocols Seminar at Ohio AgriBusiness Association

Posted on by Susan Whipkey

Our own Ben Weaver and Jamie Welch will be giving a presentation on May 24 in Findlay, Ohio, at the Wheat Testing Protocols & Standards seminar hosted by the Ohio AgriBusiness Association.

Along with presentations from the USDA, FGIS, and NGFA, Jamie and Ben’s focus will be on obtaining and processing samples for wheat quality testing.  The critical importance of ensuring that a sample is representative of the entire lot, as well as grinding samples properly, will be illustrated.

More information on the seminar can be found on the Grainnet website.

 

EnviroLogix at IAOM

Posted on by Brian Harris

Grain milling professionals – visit us at the IAOM (the International Association of Operative Millers) Annual Conference and Expo from April 6-7. Stop by booth #731 and bring your questions about rapid mycotoxin and GMO testing. We can help you set up a testing program or make improvements to your existing program.

Enter to win!

Enter to win a QuickScan system. This next-generation technology enables grain customers to read GMO and mycotoxin test strips in one quantification and traceability system.

If you are a current QuickScan customer, you can enter the drawing too and win 5 mycotoxin testing kits of your choice OR 40 GMO corn comb tests.

About IAOM

According to event organizers, the IAOM Annual Conference & Expo is the premier educational event for grain milling and seed processing professionals. The annual event gathers milling and allied trade professionals from around the world for three days of education, networking and fellowship. Educational and technical programs presented at the conference assist millers in improving yields, productivity, customer satisfaction and safety. In addition, the annual conference also includes the world’s largest Expo for milling professionals.

 

Pack Your Plaid and Join Us at MOSES

Posted on by Brian Harris

Visit us at MOSES in booth #140 to learn about our rapid, user-friendly solutions for detecting GMOs and mycotoxins. While you’re there, enter to win a $100 LL Bean gift card!

Our simple immunoassay solutions are:

  • Easy to use
  • Flexible
  • Precise

Our revolutionary molecular technology can detect the DNA of genetically modified organisms, using patented chemistry that is:

  • Quick
  • Sensitive
  • Accurate

Stop by to talk with Kyle and Lee about your specific testing challenges. We have the expertise you need in a strategic partner and the solutions you can trust for success.

Stop By GEAPS Booth #235 and WIN!

Posted on by Brian Harris

We are heading south to participate in GEAPS Exchange 2016, and hope to see you there.

 

QuickScan Catalog ImageFREE QuickScan Immunoassay Reader

A drawing for new customers!
QuickScan is a flexible and precise immunoassay strip-reading system. Using a touchscreen PC, the QuickScan System can process strips for both GMOs and mycotoxins simultaneously to provide objective, quantifiable results.

10 FREE Rapid Mycotoxin Testing Kits

A drawing for our valued current customers!QuickComb for QuickScan Corn
As you already know, our simple immunoassay solutions for detecting mycotoxins and GMOs are:
  • Easy to use
  • Flexible
  • Precise

So what could be better? Getting some for FREE!

Enter to win 10 mycotoxin kits of your choice OR 40 GMO corn comb tests.

Earn a $100 Cabela’s gift card

Are you a corn or soy processor?

Are you willing to talk with us at GEAPS for half an hour about your current GMO testing practices?

If your answer to both questions was YES, please click contact us or stop by booth #235 and request an appointment.

We will thank you for your time with a $100 Cabela’s gift card.

Explore the Possibilities at PAG

Posted on by Brian Harris

We invite you to attend an industry workshop presented by EnviroLogix at the PAG XXIV conference on January 11, 2016. Learn how this point-of-need solution can transform your workflow. Drinks & hors d’oeuvres will be served to attendees. Workshop topics and presenters are:

  • Applications and Use of DNAble/RNAble Isothermal DNA Amplification and Detection Technology, presented by Breck Parker, PhD, Sr. VP of Research & Development at EnviroLogix
  • 10 minute Quantitative Nucleic Acid Amplification and Detection Technology, presented by Dan Shaffer, Manager, Technology Development

Our innovative DNAble platform is the fastest molecular test on the market, providing qualitative, accurate results in 10 minutes or less. This rapid DNA detection technology will revolutionize the study of plants, animals and beyond.

Stop by booth #103 from January 9-13, where you can learn more about DNAble technology and talk to us about your specific research needs.

We look forward to seeing you at PAG XXIV!

Thank You Students for Another Successful STEM Expo!

Posted on by Brian Harris

We were honored to sponsor the 2nd annual Portland Public Schools STEM Expo last week. With more than 60 exhibits by students, universities and local businesses who work in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, the event was a celebration of learning and exploration. A few of the student exhibits are featured in the video clip below (produced by the Portland Public Schools Education Station), and you can view more photos of the event on our Facebook page and Twitter.

 

 

EnviroLogix Sponsors Portland Schools STEM Expo

Posted on by Brian Harris

The Portland Public Schools, in partnership with EnviroLogix, will hold the Second Annual Portland Public Schools’ STEM Exposition on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at the University of Southern Maine’s Sullivan gymnasium in Portland. At the event, which will run from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Portland Public Schools students, local businesses, and post-secondary schools will share their learning in STEM – science, technology, engineering and math. The public is invited to attend during visiting hours, which run from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

“The Portland Public Schools is proud and excited to be holding its second annual STEM Expo,” said Portland Interim Superintendent Jeanne Crocker. “This year’s event will be even bigger and more inspirational than last year’s, as Portland’s public schools and post-secondary schools and local businesses come together again to show how we are innovating in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math. Thank you to EnviroLogix for partnering with us for a second year to help showcase our students’ STEM learning, which is so important in preparing them for 21st century jobs.”

“EnviroLogix is pleased to be able to once again partner with the Portland Public Schools in this second annual STEM Expo,” said John Markin, President and CEO of EnviroLogix, a Portland-based company that develops and manufactures innovative detection technology for every link in the worldwide food production chain. “We are proud to be a part of opening students’ eyes to the exciting world of STEM possibilities by showing them specific examples of applied innovation that exist right here in their backyard. Also, EnviroLogix is a business that is built on technology, so we see the Expo as an investment not only in the community but also in potential future employees.”

Portland’s public elementary, middle and high schools will be among the more than 40 exhibitors at the event. The students will get to experience the role of teacher and learner alongside adults from the community as they share their experiences and work.

Post-secondary exhibitors will include USM; the University of Maine and the university’s 4-H STEM Ambassadors; the Maine College of Art; the University of New England; and St. Joseph’s College. Business exhibitors will include EnviroLogix, Engineers Without Borders; Kepware Technologies; Learning Works; Microsoft; and the Portland Public Library. About 1,500 Portland Public Schools students will be touring the exhibits throughout the day.

Scientist Jamie Welch to Present at the Organic & Non-GMO Forum

Posted on by Brian Harris

According to event organizers, The Organic & Non-GMO Forum is a unique one-day event that brings together stakeholders from across the organic and non-GMO value chain to address the growing opportunities and the significant supply chain challenges that still remain. The event features:

  • Interactive presentations and panel discussions with industry experts
  • Crucial information, strategies and tools to engage in the sector
  • An opportunity to meet companies within in growing sector
  • The only event that connects the entire oilseed and grains supply chain to address the critical challenges that lie ahead

Scientist Jamie Welch, Supervisor of Technical Support at EnviroLogix, will present on the current science of GMO testing protocols from 9:55 – 10:20 am on September 30.

If you’re planning to attend, please be our guest and save 10% off of your registration fee by using the discount code ONG-SK15.

Leave time on your agenda to attend Jamie’s presentation on GMO testing science, and visit our table at the expo for information and GMO testing demos. If you are thinking about entering the non-GMO market, or if you have questions about your existing program,  talk with our friendly, knowledgeable experts about your unique challenges. We can help develop a solution for your needs.

 

See You at AOAC in LA

Posted on by Brian Harris

EnviroLogix is coming all the way from Portland, Maine to meet with you and present a poster at the upcoming AOAC Annual Meeting & Exposition next week, and we can’t wait! Here is a sneak peek at the news we will be sharing at the event.
Lateral Flow DeviceAfla FREE is Now AOAC Certified
We are pleased to announce that the Aflatoxin FREE test kit recently received AOAC Performance Tested Method (PTM) certification from the AOAC Research Institute. This immunoassay is a biodegradable, water-based mycotoxin testing solution that delivers quantifiable results in only 4 minutes. Alfa FREE joins the list of previously AOAC certified mycotoxin tests that includes DON 3, Ochratoxin and Aflatoxin. Visit our booth and our poster presentation for details!
product-imageExpanding DNA Detection Portfolio
On the molecular testing side, our rapidly expanding DNAble Salmonella portfolio will soon include Salmonella enteriditis (SE). We will also be adding Listeria spp and L.monocytogenes and other pathogen tests in the near future, for a more comprehensive suite of pathogen detection technology.

 

 

Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will be at booth #110 to answer questions and offer demos. To learn more about our protein-based or DNA testing solutions, please stop by!

Test Your Exports for GMOs With Confidence

Posted on by Brian Harris

EnviroLogix, the industry leader in GMO detection, is looking forward to seeing you at the US SOY Global Trade Exchange/Midwest Specialty Grains Conference & Trade Show. According to Feed & Grain magazine, the conference has reached a new record for attendance, so it will be a phenomenal event!

The non-GMO market is expanding, both in the U.S. and abroad, so don’t get left behind! GMO testing is fast, simple and affordable. EnviroLogix is the only company offering rapid detection technology options for all GMO traits, and our industry experts can help develop a solution for your needs.

Visit our friendly, knowledgeable staff at booth # 205 during the trade show to talk about your unique challenges, and leave some time in your schedule for one of our live demos.

product-image

 

DNAble GMO Soybean Screen

Thursday, 9/10 @ 12:45 pm and Friday, 9/11 @ 8:15 am

The future of testing is here! We made rapid DNA detection simple and affordable.
Watch how easy it is to detect multiple GMO traits in minutes.
 

QuickScan-TechQuickScan GMO Test Strips

Thursday, 9/10 @ 1:30 pm and Friday, 9/11 @ 1:00 pm

Observe the fast, reliable results achieved with this trusted technique.

Save your data, print reports and detect mycotoxins on the same system!

midwest shippers

 

Thank you to our awesome summer intern!

Posted on by Brian Harris

Last week, we bid a fond farewell to Andrea. She finished up her second summer Sales & Marketing internship with EnviroLogix and is getting ready to return to school. Andrea will be a senior at Merrimack College in Massachusetts this year, where she is majoring in Marketing with a minor in International Relations.  She is also looking forward to working at Virtual as a Marketing/Communication intern during the school year, and the valuable experience she will gain in social media marketing, Photoshop and other skills.

When she’s not at work or at school, Andrea lives in Maine with her mom and stepdad. We hope you are enjoying your grandmother’s visit from Venezuela, Andrea, and we wish you all the best in your future adventures. We miss you already!

Meet Us at the Citrus Expo
and Know Your HLB Risk

Posted on by Brian Harris

EnviroLogix will once again be on hand at the Citrus Expo in Ft. Myers, FL to showcase the most advanced DNA detection system for Citrus Greening, aka Huanglongbing or HLB.

You can detect HLB infections in 30 minutes or less using our innovative DNAble technology. Perfect as a screening system for field-based diagnoses or localized laboratory settings, DNAble chemistry offers the same accuracy as PCR without the long wait time for answers.  You will see ‘positive’ or ‘negative’ results within 30 minutes.

DNAble for HLB features:

  • Fast results enable expedited decision making
  • Robust, portable reader system
  • Simple testing protocol
  • Traceable electronic results thanks to the AmpliFire reader (powered by DNAble)

Meet us at the Citrus Expo in booth #606 from August 19-20 for a live demo, or contact our product experts with questions today!

HLB banner

EnviroLogix Employees Team Up to Tri for a Cure

Posted on by Brian Harris

We are very proud to acknowledge the efforts of our employees who participated in the 2015 Maine Cancer Foundation Tri for a Cure! Cancer is the  #1 killer in the state of Maine, and the Tri for a Cure is a unique event because all the money raised stays right here in Maine to help foster prevention programs, increase cancer screening, and improve patient outcomes.

For EnviroLogix Scientist Laura Brown (pictured on the right), this was her fifth year of involvement with the Tri for a Cure. Every year, she is inspired by the hundreds of women who participate because their lives have been touched by cancer in some way, and many are cancer survivors themselves. “The Tri is such an extraordinary event, because it is a huge celebration that brings the volunteers, participants and the community together,” Laura explains;  “it is our collective determination to beat cancer that fuels so many amazing athletes who take months to train and fundraise.”

When fellow Scientist Brenda McMackin (pictured on the left) heard that Laura wanted to do the Tri again last year but didn’t want to do the whole thing alone, an alliance was created. Laura is an avid cyclist (and recently completed the Trek Across Maine), and Brenda swims every day at lunchtime, so they asked Gretchen Wight, Quality Assurance Manager, (pictured center) to be the team runner. The three women formed a relay team and called themselves the Tri Amigas. They successfully completed the triathalon and were inspired by the hundreds of women that showed up to show their support for this continued fight for a cure. Gretchen says “it was amazing to see so many women of all ages racing for important people in their lives.”

"Cancer tries - we TRI harder!"
“Cancer tries – we Tri harder!”

Brenda agrees, and added that “all of us are touched by cancer.  We all have family or friends who have survived or succumbed to cancer. This year, my community lost a very special man to pancreatic cancer. He was a coach, Scout leader, church volunteer and always available to help someone out. It motivated me to know that I was contributing to a cause that might be able to save a good person like him with the money raised to fund research.”

Kate Baltren, HR Administrator, wasn’t feeling ready to compete but knew that she wanted to support all the amazing women who were. She donated her time as a Tri volunteer and directed traffic during the event. Kate has volunteered with cancer research organizations for the last 5 years and says cancer has had a significant impact on her family. She was inspired by this all-women event, and says “being out on the course, seeing them competing and knowing the incredible sum of money they had raised in our area for cancer research was amazing. It was a great experience and I am looking forward to doing it again next year!”

Winter Wheat Harvest Woes

Posted on by Brian Harris

Wheat harvest season is well underway for many U.S. wheat growers. Some of the first soft-red wheat harvested by U.S. farmers in 2015 is the worst in at least 17 years, according to Bloomberg and other sources.

This year’s heavy rainfalls  – up to three times the normal amount – have made mycotoxin diseases like vomitoxin more prominent in many wheat-growing states.

USDA scouts recently noted that “there have been reports of elevators rejecting wheat loads due to the presence of vomitoxin,” a toxic fungal residue, also known as Deoxynialenol or DON. “Winter wheat left unharvested continues to have quality issues, including problems with scab, sprouting and mold,” the scouts added. In Michigan, official scouts said that “intermittent rain showers limited the amount of winter wheat harvested this week – moisture levels were reported as high, and some growers reported vomitoxin issues.” And in Ohio, USDA staff said that “some wheat has been of such poor quality, it is not able to be sold.”

Soft-red winter wheat is typically sold to mills and turned into flour, which is then used to make consumer products like crackers and cookies. However, the poor quality of this year’s winter wheat harvest means that it may only consumable in animal feed. According to the USDA Risk Management Agency, high levels of vomitoxin may result in either a discount in price or the requirement to destroy the grain.

So how can you avoid contamination in your crops? There is no sure DON prevention, as environmental conditions play a big part. However, there are several good practices for controlling it such as crop rotation, choosing a variety with some resistance, applying fungicides in a timely manner and tillage practices. Iowa State University engineer Charles Hurburgh warns that storing wet grain, even overnight and especially without aeration, shortens its life considerably. You should check it weekly, monitoring for spikes in the temperature, and test it regularly for evidence of DON or other mycotoxins.

 

 

 

 

See You at IAFP

Posted on by Brian Harris

Developed on the East Coast with global applications, our innovative, proven technology is making the cross-country trip to IAFP to showcase our rapidly-expanding portfolio of assays.

Why are companies large and small using our solutions to ensure quality and safety?

  • Easy to use
  • Accurate
  • Fast
  • Low startup costs
  • Simple sample prep

If you need to meet the new FSMA regulations, our tests are AOAC and NPIP approved and can be easily implemented for in-house testing.

Regardless of the market you serve, we can help address your challenges in detecting foodborne pathogens, mycotoxins and GMOs.

Meet us at booth #663 for more info and a demo.

And be sure to sign up for our mailing list while you’re on the website! Every new subscription means a $5 donation to Heifer International.

iafp logoSee you in Portland from July 25-28!

Non-GMO Webinar 501

Posted on by Brian Harris

You are invited to join a free webinar focused specifically on testing and sampling.

As a leading provider of testing solutions for Identity Preservation (IP) and Non-GMO programs, EnviroLogix has joined NSF International in presenting a webinar to discuss testing technologies that can be applied to the Non-GMO Project verification process.

The testing requirements for the Non-GMO Project can be a little be tricky. Sampling and testing for GMOs can be easy with QuickScan technology by EnviroLogix.  This webinar will look at how EnviroLogix has supported the grain industry through its innovative, simple and cost-effective platform, now being applied to the Non-GMO Project. Also joining the will be representatives of Eurofins, focusing specifically on Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing.

This is the 5th installment of the NSF Non-GMO Project webinar series aimed to get you ready, in compliance, and leveraging your in-place quality systems to gain market share with this new certification.

To participate in this informative session on July 1, click on the registration link below:

Non-GMO Project 501: Pointers on Sampling & Testing

July 1, 2015    –    10:30-11:30 Pacific Time

nsf non GMO webinar web banner copy

Help Us Celebrate Our New Website by Giving Back

Posted on by Brian Harris

We are excited to announce the recent launch of our new website! Please explore the site and tell us what you think. To celebrate, we are helping farmers feed themselves, their family and their community.

heifer goatEnviroLogix will donate $5 to Heifer International for each of the first 1,000 individuals who join our mailing list via the new website. 
In the U.S. and around the world, Heifer empowers small-scale farmers to go from poverty to self-reliance with livestock, seeds, trees and training, providing a multiplying source of food and income.
The new site is just the beginning of a renewed focus on communication. By keeping you current on industry news, software updates, new products and more, we will offer solutions to your many challenges.
Sign up to receive the latest updates from EnviroLogix, and help do some good in the fight against world hunger through the gift of independence and sustainability.
new website shots from ICS

EnviroLogix and Goodwill Partner to Make It In America

Posted on by Brian Harris

EnviroLogix is pleased to partner with Goodwill Industries in the Make It In America (MIIA) program. The program provides a paid internship (financed via a MIIA grant) to local students hoping to gain experience in the biotechnology fields.  This provides the student with valuable experience in their chosen field.

On June 3,  Ashleigh joined our Quality Assurance team as a MIIA summer intern.  Ashleigh is a recent graduate from the University of New England with a BS in Medical Biology and will help organize our ISO certification documentation.

Welcome, Ashleigh! We are honored to be your host organization.

 

EnviroLogix Team Supports the Trek Across Maine!

Posted on by Brian Harris

EnviroLogix has assembled a team to join the 3 day/180 mile bike ride from Sunday River to Belfast known as the Trek Across Maine.  In the past 30 years the Trek Across Maine has raised over $22M for the American Lung Association. The event takes place June 19-21 and is the largest fundraising event of its kind in the country!

EnviroLogix’ team, appropriately named the Science Spinners, is committed to raising awareness about preventing lung disease and promoting lung health. In addition to training for the ride each team member is raising funds to support the American Lung Association’s efforts. If you’d like to learn more about Trek Across Maine or make a donation please click on the team name.

Thank you for your support!

Pictured are 3 of the 6 Science Spinners members, setting out from EnviroLogix on a recent training ride together. From left to right: Lenity Larrabee, Dean Layton and John Markin.

EnviroLogix Scientists Help Portland Students Understand GMOs

Posted on by Brian Harris

In the spring of 2015, EnviroLogix scientist (and technical support supervisor) Jamie Welch spoke with 7th grade students in Portland about GMOs. He led students through labs where they tested plants and seeds for the presence of GMOs using EnviroLogix GMO testing strips.

Thank you to Ms. Lea for fostering an environment of hands-on learning and discovery in her classroom.  It was a pleasure to share our love of science with your students! To view more photos of Jamie’s day at Lincoln Middle School, click here.

Portland Trails Cleanup Day

Posted on by Brian Harris

In 2014, EnviroLogix adopted a section of the Portland Trails  – a nonprofit urban land trust dedicated to preserving the environment and providing public access to green space. In May 2015, our Employee Activity and Sustainability Committees joined forces to welcome spring with a Portland Trails cleanup event. Approximately 20 EnviroLogix employees spent the morning clearing brush, removing trash, repairing a bridge and doing general cleanup of a 1-mile section of trail.

Thank you to all the employees who participated and to Portland Trails for the volunteer opportunity!

 

Non-GMO Project Verification Free Webinar on Sampling & Testing

Posted on by Brian Harris
nsf non GMO webinar web banner copy

We invite you to join EnviroLogix and NSF International on May 27 for a FREE webinar on testing technologies that can be applied to the Non-GMO Project verification process.

Keeping current on emerging Non-GMO market environments is critical in today’s grain industry. Research has shown that demand for non-GMO foods and ingredients is increasing and is projected to account for up to 30 percent of the U.S. retail food and beverage market by 2017.

As a leading provider of testing solutions for Identity Preservation (IP) and Non-GMO programs EnviroLogix will introduce the industry-leading QuickScan testing platform.

The same technology that has supported the grain industry worldwide is an ideal solution for any merchandisers wishing to test, quantify, document, and analyze the GMO status of agricultural commodities. (And it’s useful for mycotoxin testing too!)

We hope you’ll join us for this informative session on May 27 at 10:30-11:30 am PST. And if you can’t make it to that session, there is another one on July 1. To register, click on the link of the date you are interested in.

May 27, 2015

10:30 – 11:30 am Pacific

July 1, 2015

10:30-11:30 am Pacific

Will We See You at VICTAM 2015?

Posted on by Brian Harris

EnviroLogix is looking forward to exhibiting at VICTAM – the world’s largest and foremost international event for animal feed ingredients & processing technology, biomass pelleting systems, flour milling and grain processing.

The 2015 event, which happens to be the 50th Anniversary of the Victam Exhibition, will once again combine the FIAAP, VICTAM & GRAPAS exhibitions, and their respective conferences, under one roof at Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany from June 9 -11, 2015.

victam long logo

 

We will be pleased to welcome you at stand G072 throughout the exhibition and at our Technical Seminar – The Next Generation of Grain, Feed and Petfood Testing, presented Thursday, June 11th from 13:30 14:29 in the Rheinsaal 1+2 at the Congress Center North at the KoelnMesse.

To pre-register for your FREE exhibition entry badge, click here.

Join EnviroLogix at MOSES

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

MOSES-2015-logo-colorEnviroLogix will be attending the MOSES conference this week.

The MOSES Conference is the largest event in the U.S. about organic and sustainable farming. It’s the one event of the season where attendees can expand farming knowledge, discover new resources and tools, make connections and find support, and look cool wearing plaid!

GMO testing and traceability are specialties of EnviroLogix, enabled by our innovative QuickScan System.

Along with testing GMOs, EnviroLogix also provides test kits for mycotoxins in grains and commodities using QuickScan as well.

Drop by booth #140 to explore your options for testing common commodities.

GMO Tests Receive Approval in Ukraine

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

EnviroLogix is pleased to announce that the Ukrainian Laboratory of Quality and Safety of Agricultural Products of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine (NUBiP of Ukraine) developed the Methodological Guidelines on QuickStix kits and QuickScan reader and it was approved for use in Ukraine after the successful validation of EnviroLogix QuickStix quantitative and qualitative GMO tests.

Here is the official copy of the certification of the methodological recommendations for EnviroLogix GMO tests in Ukraine, as translated above.

Click here to find the contact information for our product distributor in the Ukraine.

ukraine_gmo_approval_straightened

Portland Public Schools Holds First STEM Exposition in Partnership with EnviroLogix

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

Students will exhibit their work, joining local businesses and post-secondary schools in sharing learning and innovation in the areas of STEM – science, technology, engineering and math

PORTLAND, Maine (Nov. 6, 2014) – The Portland Public Schools, in partnership with EnviroLogix, will hold the first Portland Public Schools STEM Exposition on Monday, Nov. 10 at the Ocean Gateway Terminal in Portland. At the event, which will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Portland Public School students, local businesses, and post-secondary schools will share their learning in STEM – science, technology, engineering and math. The public is encouraged to attend.

“This is the first time ever that the Portland community has come together to show how we are innovating in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math from our public schools to our post-secondary schools and in our local businesses,” said Portland Public Schools Superintendent Emmanuel Caulk. “This truly is an exhibition of STEM learning from cradle to career. STEM knowledge is essential for 21st century jobs and we’re excited to partner with EnviroLogix in showing the public what our students are learning to prepare them for the future.”

“EnviroLogix is pleased to be able to partner with the Portland Public Schools in their first STEM Expo,” said John Markin, President and CEO of EnviroLogix, a Portland-based company that develops and manufactures innovative detection technology for every link in the worldwide food production chain. “Helping students see the exciting world of STEM possibilities, combined with specific examples of existing results of applied innovation that all exist right here in their back yard, is a great opportunity for everyone. As a business that is built on technology, we see this Expo as an investment both in the community and in potential future employees for EnviroLogix, and we are proud to be a part of it.”

Students from all of Portland’s public middle and high schools, the Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS), and three elementary schools will be among the exhibitors at the event. Nearly 1,000 other Portland Public School students will be touring the exhibits during the course of the day.

Some examples of the student exhibits include one from Lincoln Middle School students, who will demonstrate ZomeTools, which help students model concepts in geometry, including 2D, 3D and applications such as the Pythagorean theorem. Hall Elementary School students will be displaying their toothpick bridge models in an engineering-related exhibit. And Deering High School students will be demonstrating the crime detection skills they have acquired in their Forensic Science Class.

This STEM partnership with EnviroLogix arose out of the Portland Public Schools’ Principal for a Day program, in which EnviroLogix’ Markin participated. In the annual Principal for a Day program – run in partnership with the Portland Regional Chamber and its CEO Chris Hall – business CEOs spend a day as guest principals in the public schools, providing insight and advice.

EnviroLogix Announces “Fumonisin Flex” QuickTox Kit

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

flexhose-iconEnviroLogix Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of an industry-leading innovation to its QuickTox family – “Fumonisin Flex.” The new Fumonisin Flex test offers users the flexibility of testing multiple matrices using water or a water-based buffer as an extraction method, eliminating the additional costs of purchasing and disposing of ethanol. The expanded matrix list includes corn, corn flour, corn germ, corn germ meal, DDGS and sorghum.

Additionally, Fumonisin Flex is designed and calibrated to conform to GIPSA performance criteria. Its features include:

  • Water extraction
  • Test results in 5 minutes
  • Accurate quantification and traceability utilizing the QuickScan System
  • Affordable grain-quality management
  • Industry-leading customer support

The addition of new matrices through extraction method flexibility reflects EnviroLogix’ commitment to the continued success of their customers, by developing new products based on customer feedback and providing the most advanced and versatile testing solutions available.

EnviroLogix was the first company to offer Lateral Flow Device (LFD) technology for mycotoxin screening in grain. The focus on innovation and providing solutions in today’s identity-preservation and food-safety environments continued with the introduction of QuickScan, offering the unique advantage of quantifying mycotoxins and GMOs in one PC-based testing system. The simplicity of LFD testing combined with QuickScan’s long-standing reputation for accuracy and traceability means that grain-quality decisions can be made quickly and with complete confidence.

According to Kyle Donovan, Business Unit Manager, “The QuickScan platform has proven to be the industry’s most versatile solution for grain handling needs. The addition of a water-based, eco-friendly solution to Fumonisin testing is just another example of EnviroLogix’ commitment to providing our customers simple, reliable and cost-effective solutions to their everyday challenges.”

To learn more about Fumonisin Flex or QuickScan, please visit the Fumonisin Flex page or contact sales at 1-866-408-4597 x3.

Introducing DNAble for HLB

Posted on by Kevin Brooks
dnable for HLB

EnviroLogix is pleased to announce the launch of the latest DNAble assay for detecting HLB – also known as Huanglongbing or Citrus Greening.

HLB was introduced to the United States through an invasive species known as the Asian Citrus Psyllid, which quickly spread the blight through Florida citrus groves. HLB causes infected trees to produce yellow, mottled leaves and misshapen, sour fruit unfit for sale – eventually killing the host tree.

The highly sensitive DNAble assay detects Liberibacter asiaticus DNA in samples with the same accuracy as traditional PCR tests. Genetic material is extracted and amplified during a 15 minute real-time reaction that allows for rapid on-site testing of citrus trees. Featuring a portable reader system, easy-to-learn testing protocol, and low set-up costs, DNAble is the ideal HLB screening system for growers.

“DNAble for HLB promises to be a powerful diagnostic tool for the citrus industry,” says Kyle Donovan, Business Unit Manager at EnviroLogix. “Growers can use DNAble to rapidly detect and manage HLB infections, preventing further spread of the disease.”

To learn more about DNAble for HLB please visit the HLB webpage or contact sales at 1-866-408-4597 x3.

DNAble for Salmonella is NPIP Certified

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

July 31, 2014, Portland ME — EnviroLogix Inc. is pleased to announce that its groundbreaking DNAble assay for Salmonella has been granted approval status by the National Poultry Improvement Program (NPIP) enabling rapid pathogen detection in all aspects of primary poultry production.

EnviroLogix’ patent-pending DNAble platform uses groundbreaking chemistry to deliver rapid, accurate, and precise molecular detection compared to more traditional test methods such as PCR and culture.

“DNAble’s proprietary isothermal technology is a real game-changer. It eliminates the time-consuming thermocycling step of traditional PCR systems, while providing performance comparable to NPIP approved Salmonella culture and identification procedures.” explains Kyle Donovan, Business Unit Manager for Food and Feed Safety. “One-step enrichment, enabled by extremely robust chemistry, isolates and amplifies Salmonella bacteria in very crude samples without extensive purification steps. This directly translates to a significant cost and time savings for the end user.”

“Partnering with customers to provide the best diagnostic assays for the industry is our goal,” continues Chris Southerland, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “DNAble for Salmonella promises to become an essential tool for poultry producers looking to maintain a high standard of quality assurance at every level of their operation.”

For more information on DNAble for Salmonella, please visit the Salmonella page, or call the Sales Team, toll-free US, 1-866-408-4597 x3.

DNAble for Salmonella Receives AOAC Certification

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

EnviroLogix is pleased to announce that its DNAble Detection Assay for Salmonella has been certified as a Performance Tested MethodSM (#041404) by the AOAC Research Institute in the following AOAC categories: primary production samples, environmental samples for food or feed production, and pet food and animal feed.

EnviroLogix’ patent-pending DNAble platform uses groundbreaking chemistry to deliver rapid, accurate, and precise test results compared to more traditional molecular test methods, such as PCR and culture.

“DNAble’s proprietary isothermal technology is a real game-changer. It eliminates the time-consuming thermocycling step of traditional PCR systems while providing comparable performance,” explains Jennine Cannizzo, Director of Molecular Diagnostics. “One-step enrichment, enabled by extremely robust chemistry, isolates and amplifies Salmonella bacteria in very crude samples without additional purification steps. This directly translates to a significant cost and time savings for the end user.

“Partnering with customers to provide the best diagnostic assays for the agricultural industry, feed and pet food markets is our goal,” continues Chris Southerland, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “With the addition of DNAble to our current Mycotoxin and GMO product offerings, our customers now have access to a more complete suite of Food and Feed screening solutions. We are committed to helping our industry partners prepare to meet the testing challenges of the future.”

To learn more about DNAble for Salmonella, please visit envirologix.com/salmonella or contact us.

Export with Confidence – EnviroLogix Test Kits for Duracade™ and MIR 162

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

In light of the recent news reports about concerns over Duracade corn and its impact on US corn exports, EnviroLogix is pleased to announce it has already developed a test for this trait, QuickStix Kit for eCry3.1Ab, the unique protein expressed in Duracade corn, which is also known as Event 5307.

EnviroLogix continues to offer a complete solution for grain handlers wishing to test for any GMO traits, approved or unapproved, that are available in the US market and beyond.

In particular, the eCry3.1Ab test was developed several years ago and has been validated and approved by Syngenta for detection of the protein expressed in Agrisure Duracade traited corn.

Many major grain buyers have announced they would not be accepting any Duracade at their facilities until further notice.

“A recent USGC press release expressed concern that inadvertent co-mingling of approved and unapproved traits could disrupt trade and cause more rejections of US corn in overseas markets,” says Nick Davala, Business Unit Manager.

“EnviroLogix offers a complete solution for screening and identity-preserving incoming grain for elevators, mills, processors…basically anyone concerned about the acceptability of their end product in China or other overseas markets.

“Along with our Duracade test, we also provide tests for Vip3A (MIR 162) and CspB (drought resistance), which have also been identified as traits of concern in the corn export market.”

™Duracade is a trademark of a Syngenta Group Company

Exclusive Distribution Agreement for DNAble® and Array Tape™

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

EnviroLogix and Douglas Scientific announced today that they have signed a multi-year exclusive distribution agreement, pairing EnviroLogix’ patent-pending DNAble technology with the Douglas Scientific Array Tape™ platform. This collaboration enables them to serve a multitude of customers requiring sophisticated and precise medium- and high-throughput testing solutions.

“The success that has been garnered from our 2012 collaborative agreement makes this the next logical step for us to grow and expand this disruptive molecular detection solution,” says John Markin, C.E.O. of EnviroLogix. “Leveraging the advances of DNAble’s technology and the advantages of Douglas Scientific’s high-throughput platforms, we can offer solutions to an ever-widening array of customers.”

Dan Malmstrom, President and COO of Douglas Scientific, explains, “Adding the DNAble chemistry to our product line brings us one step closer to providing our clients with a complete solution. Fully automated qualitative and quantitative nucleic acid testing can now be done at unprecedented rates while providing dramatic savings to our clients.”

DNAble is a very rapid, highly specific isothermal nucleic acid amplification technology that can amplify both RNA and DNA targets with single base resolution a billion-fold in 5-10 minutes at a single, constant temperature. It offers highly specific, rapid, multiplexed, quantitative results rivaling qPCR. Unlike PCR, DNAble can amplify a target sequence from a crude sample preparation and do so with minimal equipment.

Array Tape is a flexible microplate replacement in a continuous polymer strip, serially embossed with reaction wells in customized volumes and formats. It enables a reel-to-reel process flow that utilizes inline, modular instrumentation including: Nexar® liquid handling and assay processing system, Soellex® thermal cycling and Araya® fluorescent detection instrumentation. Of critical importance is its ability to save labs approximately 50% on consumable costs and 80-90% on reagents due to miniaturized reaction volumes. This translates into major savings for labs both large and small.

About Douglas Scientific
Douglas Scientific is dedicated to making the world a better place by delivering innovative laboratory automation. Its medium- to high-throughput processing solutions enable new discovery in plant genomics, animal health, food safety, horticulture, human diagnostics and pharmaceutical applications on a flexible platform with a rapid time to result and fractional costs.

Aflatoxin FREE receives GIPSA certification

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

EnviroLogix Inc. is pleased to announce that its QuickTox Kit for QuickScan™ – Aflatoxin FREE (Cat. No. AQ 209 BG) has received GIPSA certification in the form of a Certificate of Conformance from the USDA/GIPSA Rapid Test Kit Evaluation Program (2013-047).

According to Nick Davala, Product Manager, “The QuickScan platform has proven to be the industry’s most versatile solution for grain handling needs. The addition of a biodegradable solution to Aflatoxin testing is just another example of EnviroLogix’ commitment to providing customers simple, reliable and cost-effective solutions to their everyday challenges.”

EnviroLogix was the first company to offer LFD technology for mycotoxin screening in grain. The focus on innovation and providing solutions in today’s identity-preservation and food-safety environments continued with the introduction of QuickScan, offering the unique advantage of quantifying mycotoxins and GMOs in one PC-based testing system.

Davala continued, “In addition to our technology, we are committed to strong technical support, working hard to help our partners resolve issues, and addressing concerns across a variety of industries, including grain, feed, milling, and pet food.”

For more information about QuickScan, contact Nick Davala, Product Manager, at 1-866-408-4597 x6416, email the QuickScan Team, or visit elx/FREE.