EU Adopts Fluorimetric Method as Pasteurization Test Standard; Advanced Instruments’ Fluorophos® Test System Flourishes as International Reference

NORWOOD, MASSACHUSETTS, USA – April 23, 2007 – The new European Union (EU) standards regulating dairy pasteurization testing that go into effect on May 6th will not only benefit consumer safety throughout Europe, but further affirm Advanced Instruments’ Fluorophos® Test System as a true standard around the world.

On May 6, 2007, EU regulations adopt the Fluorimetric Method (ISO Standard 11816-1) as the new standard in assessing the correct pasteurization of milk, replacing the colorimetric methods used to measure Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) since the 1930’s. Other regulations increase the sensitivity requirements for ALP testing criteria to 350mU/L of phenol per liter from the previous level of 500mU/L. The tougher criteria bring EU requirements in line with the stricter testing controls already in place in the United States and other countries.

The implementation of the new EU regulations further solidifies the position of the Fluorophos® Test System – Advanced Instruments’ rapid, extremely sensitive fluorimetric method for assessing ALP – as a true international test reference standard for dairy quality and process control.

In addition to representing the new EU reference method status, the Fluorophos® Test System has been unanimously approved as a full international standard method by The International Dairy Federation (IDF 155), the International Standards Organisation, (ISO 11816), and the CEN European Standards Organisation. The Fluorophos® system is also approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the US Interstate Milk Shippers, and AOAC International.

“The Fluorophos® Test System is the world’s only 3-minute fluorimetric method with multiple international agency approvals,” said Ken Micciche, Director of Marketing, Advanced Instruments, Inc. (www.aicompanies.com).

The Fluorophos® Test System delivers accuracy over a range of ALP levels, including low values, for milk from cows (whole, semi-skimmed, skimmed and flavored) as well as from sheep and goats. The benefits of implementation include higher precision, reproducibility, and a ten-fold improvement in test sensitivity. The System also enables a significant improvement in troubleshooting capabilities by allowing immediate process validation following maintenance. This improves HACCP and food safety programs to protect consumers and continue manufacturing quality, consistent products.

“On May 6th, the European Union improves the accuracy and sensitivity of dairy testing throughout Europe, thus improving the safety of pasteurized milk and the health and well-being of all consumers,” Micciche said.

For more information, contact Micciche at Advanced Instruments, online at www.aicompanies.com/ai_products/alp/alp.htm, or by telephone +1-781-320-9000.

About Advanced Instruments
Founded in 1955, Advanced Instruments, Inc. is the world’s largest supplier of freezing-point osmometers used in clinical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology laboratories. The company is also a leading supplier of analytical instruments and test kits for the food, dairy, and industrial microbiology markets. Based in Norwood, Massachusetts, USA, the company also produces Fiske® Associates brand diagnostic instruments and operates Spiral Biotech, Inc., and Delta Instruments as wholly-owned subsidiaries.

Advanced Instruments’ products are supported by a worldwide network of direct sales people and independent distributors. Reach Advanced Instruments online at www.aicompanies.com or contact customer service at 800-225-4034 or +1-781-320-9000.