Overview
For rapid, direct determination of Histamine concentrations in fish, wine, and other samples. The assay uses Visual for signal readout. Compatible sample input includes Seafood, wine, juice, milk and dairy products, etc. Typical stated assay timing is Approximately 15 min.
Key elements and design rationale
- Readout format: Visual supports plate-based signal acquisition and consistent comparison across matched samples.
- Sample compatibility: The stated sample scope includes Seafood, wine, juice, milk and dairy products, etc, which is useful when aligning matrix type with calibration and control design.
- Workflow timing: The listed assay time of Approximately 15 min helps frame batch planning, replicate handling, and plate throughput.
- Feature emphasis: Fast and sensitive. Use of 500 mg of fish or 250 µL of sample. Semi-quantitative measurement between 0-200 ppm (undiluted) Histamine.
Additional feature notes highlight Convenient. No expensive lab equipment needed; Sample treatment and assay can be performed in under 15 minutes. Available format information for this listing includes 10 Tests.
Biological background
This product is centered on measurement of quantiquik histamine quick test strips within the matrices described for the assay. In practice, datasets from this type of format are typically interpreted by comparing relative signal, activity, or abundance across matched control and experimental groups rather than relying on a single value in isolation. Careful alignment of sample matrix, incubation window, and calibration strategy is important when comparing results across plates, operators, or study days.
More details
HISTAMINE(C5H9N3) is a biogenic amine naturally present in many foods and body cells in amounts without toxicological significance. It is also a contaminant mostly found in Scombridae family fishes, such as tuna and mackerel, as well as other seafood products when they are improperly handled or stored. The consumption of foods containing high levels of histamine may lead to an allergy-like food poisoning known as scombroid poisoning.BioAssay Systems QuantiQuik™ Histamine Quick Test Strips are based on histamine dehydrogenase catalyzed oxidation of histamine in which the formed electron mediator reduces a formazan (MTT) reagent. The intensity of product color is directly proportional to histamine concentration in the sample.
Detection method
Visual.
Procedures and timing
Stated procedure or timing information: Approximately 15 min.
Research relevance and current trends
- Plate-based quantification and side-by-side group comparison remain central use cases for this assay format.
- The description supports intervention-focused study designs in which researchers compare baseline and perturbed conditions.
- Short assay timing and plate compatibility support time-course or repeated-measure collection plans when handling is kept consistent.
Common research applications
- Screen quantiquik histamine quick test strips in seafood, wine, juice, milk and dairy products using strip-based.
- Compare threshold or presence-call outcomes across matched sample groups.
- Monitor routine or field-collected batches with consistent collection timing.
Interpretation is usually strongest when signal changes are assessed alongside matrix-matched controls, replicate agreement, and the assay's stated analytical window.
Notes for experimental interpretation
- Matrix composition, background signal, and sample handling can influence apparent response; compare like-with-like whenever possible.
- Use appropriate blanks, controls, and replicate wells to distinguish biological differences from plate, reagent, or handling variability.
What samples have you tested?
Fish samples: Ahi tuna, Mahi Mahi, Albacore, Mackerel, Anchovy, Salmon, Tilapia. Red wine, white wine, and milk.
How sensitive are the Histamine strips?
The lower detection limit of the strips for seafood, red wine, and milk samples is 20 ppm.
My sample turns the strip very dark purple, how can I determine the Histamine concentration?
Very dark purple indicates that the diluted sample concentration is greater than 200 ppm. To obtain a more accurate concentration, the sample should be diluted and retested. Multiply the concentration of the corresponding color by the dilution factor to determine the histamine concentration.
I don’t have access to a homogenizer. How can I effectively homogenize my fish samples?
Fish samples can be mashed with a tooth pick and then vigorously shaken for 2 minutes in the extraction buffer.
How can I measure levels of histamine in milk samples?
Milk samples require a 2× Dilution. Carefully add 200 µL of Extraction Buffer to a Sample tube. Then, add 200 µL of milk. Replace the cap, securely close the vial, and invert the vial a couple of times to mix the diluted sample. Proceed with step 1 of the test procedure on the product protocol. Dilution Factor=2
Can I measure histamine in white wine samples?
Histamine can be measured in white wine samples, but please note that only levels greater than 20 ppm can be detected and white wine rarely has levels of histamine this high. White wine samples should be diluted 2× in Extraction buffer. See question 5 for instructions.
Can I store unused reagents for future use?
Yes, unused reagents can be stored according to the assay protocol. The strips should be kept in a dry, preferably cool location protected from light. For long term storage (>30 days), we recommend keeping the Extraction Buffer at 4°C or below.
Why am I not seeing positive results with my wines?
Most red wine histamine levels are 60-3,800 µg/L (or 0.06-3.8 ppm). These levels may cause a slight color change, but it would be difficult to perceive. Therefore most normal wines have histamine levels below the detection limit of 20 ppm. These strips are better suited for identifying an issue with the wine, for example, if there is a problem with the fermentation, the wine may have elevated histamine levels that can be seen with the test strips.
For laboratories requiring additional technical capacity, we provide scientific support services including assay execution, method guidance, product sourcing, and customization to align the assay with specific experimental objectives. If you need assistance selecting the appropriate kit configuration, adapting the workflow to your application, or identifying related research services, please click Talk to a Scientist, email support@biohippo.com, or review our Research Services; a member of our scientific team will follow up with recommendations tailored to your study.
