[Detection of bovine-derived materials in import animal feeds and food by PCR assay].

A PCR assay for detection and identification of bovine--derived materials in import animal feeds and food is developed. A 271 bp sequence from bovine specific mitochondrial DNA is amplified. The amplified specific sequence of the bovine mtDNA from meat and feed samples is demonstrated by both direct sequencing and restriction endonuclease digestion yield analysis. This method can detect bovine mtDNA in those less than 0.125% of bovine meat. Owing that this method is specific, rapid and sensitive, it can be utilized as a routine control assay in prevention of spreading of bovine spongiform encephalopathy in China caused by imported food and animal feeds especially meat and bone meals.