Detection of the Emetic Bacillus cereus Toxin Cereulide
Recently, products were recalled in Switzerland due to contamination with the toxin cereulide. Consumption of affected products may lead to adverse health effects such as nausea and vomiting.
Cereulide is a heat‑stable, emetic toxin produced by Bacillus cereus, a spore‑forming bacterium that is ubiquitous in the environment. Its natural habitat is soil; accordingly, many foods that come into contact with soil particles or dust may become contaminated.
Illnesses are most frequently associated with starchy and protein‑rich foods, such as rice dishes or dairy products. The endospores formed by Bacillus cereus are extremely resistant and can withstand heat treatments at high temperatures. Under suitable conditions—for example, keeping cooked rice warm at temperatures below 60 °C—the spores may germinate, leading to the formation of cereulide.
Since January 2026, our Contaminants Competence Center has been offering the analysis of the emetic Bacillus cereus toxin cereulide in all food matrices using LC‑MS/MS in accordance with ISO 18465:2017.
Please contact your account manager for further information on cereulide and the corresponding analytical services for your products.
