Differentiation of wheat and spelt using dPCR

The differentiation between wheat and spelt represents a particular analytical challenge, as they are closely related cereal species of the genus Triticum with a high degree of genetic similarity. According to the guidelines for bread and small baked goods, products labelled with a specific type of cereal must be made of at least 90 % of that cereal.

Accordingly, a product labelled as spelt bread must consist of at least 90 % spelt. For pasta, even stricter rules apply under the relevant guidelines: spelt pasta may be produced exclusively from the cereal specified in its name.

Is my spelt product made from a single variety?

Since both wheat and spelt are often processed in mills, production-related cross-contamination may occur during the manufacturing of spelt-based milled products. In addition, the significant price difference between spelt and wheat means that economically motivated adulteration of spelt products cannot be completely ruled out.

Three compartments of a wooden bowl hold different cereal varieties and grains on a wooden table; scattered grains lie around.

Our technology

For the clear differentiation of these two cereal types, we are using modern digital PCR (dPCR). With this technology, even the smallest admixtures of wheat in spelt products can be reliably detected and quantified. By partitioning a sample into up to 26,000 individual reactions, dPCR enables significantly more sensitive analysis than “traditional” PCR. This partitioning also makes this method highly robust against inhibitory effects. In addition to increased sensitivity, dPCR also offers simple, rapid, and absolute quantification of nucleic acids, without the need for the complex generation of a standard curve.

With this innovative technology, we make an active contribution to quality assurance, product safety, and consumer confidence in the food industry.

dPCR analyzer with wheat and spelt samples and the result of the wheat-spelt differentiation

Legal basis

The lawful basis for the designation of bread, small baked goods, and pasta in Germany is regulated in particular by:

Contact us!

Gain faster decisions and more control over your raw materials and products. If you are interested or have any questions, please get in touch.

GeneCon International GmbH

Gerbergasse 12
52511 Geilenkirchen
Deutschland

+49 (0) 24 51 - 91 26 26 1
+49 (0) 173 - 53 41 373

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