The Charm CideLite broad-spectrum pesticide test detects organophosphate insecticides (or their active metabolites) and n-methylcarbamate insecticides in fruits and vegetables, dairy, meat, and water.

The CideLite test is 100 to 1,000 times more sensitive to organophosphates and n-methylcarbamates than assays using an acetylcholinesterase reaction because the CideLite test uses the more sensitive enzyme, insect esterase. In addition to its enhanced sensitivity, the incubation time for the CideLite test is only 15 minutes, making it a rapid pesticide screening test.

The CideLite test is an enzyme-linked bioluminescent assay, which uses a specific enzyme/ receptor reaction, sensitive to the presence of organophosphate and N-methylcarbamate insecticides. Residual bioactivity is measured in relative light units on a Charm II analyzer or novaLUM luminometer. Negative samples have full bioactivity, resulting in high readings. Low readings indicate the presence of organophosphate and/or N-methylcarbamate insecticides.

The following matrices can be tested using the CideLite broad-spectrum pesticide test:

• Brassica vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower
• Citrus fruits, including oranges and grapefruits
• Dairy products, including milk and yogurt
• Eggs
• Feed and grain
• Fish
• Honey
• Leafy vegetables, including lettuce and spinach
• Meat, such as beef, pork, and chicken
• Pome fruits, such as apples and pears
• Small fruits and berries
• Stone fruits, such as cherries, peaches, and plums
• Tropical fruit, like bananas and kiwi
• Roots and tubers, such as potatoes and carrots
• Water