What’s the Difference Between a Rapid Test and a Regular Test?

Mycotoxin tests are tools, and like any tool, you need the one that fits your goals. Sometimes tests aim to be sensitive and compliant, others fast and simple. One common way to categorize types of mycotoxin tests is differentiating regular versus rapid testing.

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What Is a Regular Test?

Regular tests are performed with traditional methods and designed for use with laboratory instruments. They are sensitive and precise, even though they may take longer, and they can be used for compliance verification because of their reliability.

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Types of Regular Tests

There are two primary types of regular tests for mycotoxins:

• LC and LC-MS/MS require a designated laboratory space, so they may be conducted in a production facility or a third-party testing lab. Usually, these tests are AOAC validated, so they offer defense for your data if product quality or safety is challenged.
• ELISA is a type of regular test with a high throughput. It requires technical skill, and calibration involves actual mycotoxins to ensure accuracy and consistency. Although these are high throughput, the additional steps to collect samples and calibrate can reduce efficacy and increase cost in some testing environments.

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What Is a Rapid Test?

Rapid tests are designed to be simple and fast, so they can be performed anywhere by almost anyone. Rapid tests are a great choice for checking raw materials, processing products, or even finished products on-site. 

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Types of Rapid Tests

There is one primary type of rapid test:

• Lateral Flow Strip (LFD) tests eliminate the most common challenges associated with regular methods. Calibration is easy and long-lasting, and the tests have a shelf life of 18–24 months). Most LFD rapid tests eliminate toxic chemicals at point of use, reduce time to results, and simplify the step-by-step procedure. That means rapid test data is accessible almost anywhere, to scientists and non-scientists alike.  

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“Whether a user is monitoring around the clock at grain harvest or testing inbound peanut quality at a buying point, the common need is for speed, simplicity, and accuracy on-the-spot,”  shared Carlton Skipper, VICAM’s Southeast regional sales manager. “Rapid tests offer a smart, layered approach to mycotoxin monitoring and management.”

VICAM’s Rapid Test—Vertu TOUCH

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use mycotoxin rapid-test, the Vertu TOUCH system can detect six mycotoxins with just one extraction. It has all the advantages of a rapid test, including:

• Ideal system for on-site testing.
• Quantitative results in a short time.
• Easy, three-step procedure that anyone can follow.
• Low equipment costs and low training requirements.
• Aqueous extraction that eliminates harsh chemicals.

Vertu TOUCH Test Procedure

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Find the Best Test for You

To learn more about how VICAM testing solutions can help you meet your unique testing needs, contact us today.

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