A lack of standard methods for bioactive milk proteins
1999
Roberts, R. | Marshall, P.A. | Scammell, A.W. (Northfield Lab., Oakden (Australia))
There is substantial growth in the use of bovine colostrum in animal and human health. This is a case example of the need for international standardisation of analytical methods for the measurement of bioactive components in milk, colostrum and products incorporating them. Potency and implied efficacy claims may be based on assays that the academic fraternity have been using to compare the effect of various experimental parameters. Some results do not stand up to closer scrutiny as absolute values, and producers who are scientifically scrupulous can find themselves at serious competitive disadvantage. For instance, product claims are often based on the content of immunoglobulin G (IgG). As the most dominant of the bioactive proteins that distinguish colostrum from milk, IgG serves as a useful marker for the quality of the product. Some claims for IgG content may be made in good faith, but are demonstrably over-estimated. An affinity chromatography assay that has been developed and cross-checked in use by NorthField Laboratories and NUMICO Research is gaining acceptance as a convenient and reliable method for determining IgG in colostrum, milk and dairy products. Far more accurate and precise than the radial immuno-diffusion assay formerly used, this technique should undergo further inter-laboratory examination and be considered for industry wide acceptance. As with any such method, it needs to be based upon an internationally recognised reference standard, and this is not yet the case for IgG.
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