Contracted by the South Australian Government, Agilex Biolabs is deploying world-class science to safeguard seafood safety and protect the community.
Agilex Takes Action
Agilex Biolabs has been contracted by the South Australian Government to help address the toxic algal bloom affecting parts of South Australia. Our scientists are developing, validating and deploying a liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LCMS) method for the rapid quantification of brevetoxins in seafood. This sovereign testing capability will provide assurance to regulators, industry and the public that food remains safe.
The immediate focus is on bivalve seafood such as pipis, which represent an important South Australian industry and have been directly impacted by the current outbreak.
Why It Matters
Brevetoxins are produced by certain harmful algal blooms and can be dangerous if ingested. When present in seafood, they pose a significant health risk and threaten the reputation of South Australia’s food industry. First noticed on the Fleuriea Peninsula in March, the current algal bloom has raised concern across the state, prompting a swift government response and the establishment of a new national algae testing laboratory in Adelaide (official statement). As of August, the bloom is present in Gulf St Vincent, Spencer Gulf and the Fleuriea coastline.
Agilex’s Expertise
This initiative marks the first time Agilex Biolabs has applied its expertise to an environmental public health challenge. The company has long been recognised as a leader in clinical trial bioanalysis, delivering quality, speed and precision for clients worldwide. By adapting its scientific methods and infrastructure to support this urgent need, Agilex is demonstrating its capability to rapidly respond to critical issues that affect the wider community.
Leadership Voices
Morgan Evans, Chief Scientific Officer at Agilex Biolabs, said:
“Agilex Biolabs has always stood for science with purpose, delivering quality and speed to improve lives. Until now, that has meant supporting patients around the world through clinical trials. Today, it means protecting our own community by tackling the brevetoxin threat. Our scientists are ready, our expertise is proven, and we are proud to stand alongside government to keep South Australians safe.”
Steve McIntyre, Chief Executive Officer at Agilex Biolabs, added:
“This is a proud moment for Agilex, as we put our world-class science to work in service of our community. Our commitment to quality and speed means South Australians can have confidence in the results provided and therefore, keep impacted businesses open”
Looking Ahead
Agilex Biolabs is committed to supporting the government’s efforts to address the toxic algal bloom swiftly and effectively. As testing continues, further updates will be shared, ensuring transparency and reassurance for the South Australian public.
For official news, please visit the Australian Government website.
