New Field Narcotics Tests Launched

BREDA, Netherlands — MMC International BV launched a new presumptive narcotics test designed to allow law enforcement agencies to test solids, powders, liquids, resins, surfaces and clothing for the presence of 12 controlled substances.

Designed to provide a cost-effective alternative to laboratory testing for methamphetamines, heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, phencyclidine, cannabinoids, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, buprenorphine, methadone, morphine, and oxycodone, the new test delivers visual results in approximately 2 minutes.

Able to detect the presence of controlled substances at levels of less than 1 ppm, the sensitivity of MMC’s new narcotics tests is estimated at approximately 2 to 50 ng/ml, according to the company. The accuracy of negative results is rated as 99.38 percent, with positive results estimated at 97.45 percent accurate.

The new line of narcotics test advances a testing methodology developed during the past 10 years as an alternative to the more traditional modalities of presumptive test that utilize potentially dangerous chemicals or liquid reagents such as sulfuric and hydrochloric acid, officials say.

The test uses proprietary coated granules designed to deliver safe, reliable, user-friendly testing capabilities, officials say. The tests do not require the introduction of post-test neutralizing agents, which permits easy use and disposal in the field.

Approved for use by the Dutch government, the new tests have been submitted for evaluation by the U.S. General Services Administration, officials say.