Fast and reliable analytics concerning Bacillus cereus and cereulide

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Feb 16, 2026 - Foods

Fast and reliable analytics concerning Bacillus cereus and cereulide

The heat-stable and resistant toxin cereulide, produced by bacteria of the Bacillus cereus group, regularly causes foodborne illnesses and recalls. In recent weeks, there have been reports of such illnesses in infants and of infant formula contaminated with cereulide.

The BAV INSTITUT offers validated and accredited methods for detecting presumptive Bacillus cereus and the cereulide toxin:

We offer the following accredited services around Bacillus cereus:

• Cultural rapid method (24 h)
• Detection of cereulide toxin production using RT-PCR (ces gene)
• Direct detection of cereulide in food using LC-MS/MS

For inquiries or to coordinate quick test results, we are at your disposal.

Sources:

• https://www.bav-institut.de/de/news/bacillus-cereus-in-lebensmitteln-risiken-erkennen-und-sicher-bewerten
• https://www.bav-institut.de/de/untersuchungen/chemie