GENE-TRAK Listeria Microwell Test receives AOAC validation

LANSING, Mich., April 13, 2004 — Neogen Corporation (Nasdaq: NEOG) announced today that it has received Performance Tested Method status from the AOAC Research Institute for its newest rapid test to detect Listeria.

GENE-TRAK Listeria Microwell Test combines the superior specificity of DNA hybridization technology with the ability to rapidly process up to 93 samples at one time, or a small number of samples. This GENE-TRAK test provides superior results with no more equipment or training than is required for the widely used, but less specific antibody microwell ELISA kits.

“The trend toward fewer, bigger food producers has allowed us to offer testing products that reflect their changing needs. The format of this kit is ideal for customers who require a high volume of sample throughput when testing for bacteria,” said James Herbert, Neogen’s president. “The validation by the AOAC Research Institute will allow us to build upon our success with this test kit by allowing us access to select laboratories and institutions that prefer third party validations. Each time we receive a third party validation on any of our tests, it provides further assurance to our many customers.”

A major advantage of GENE-TRAK’s DNA hybridization technology is its highly-specific probes, which virtually eliminate false negatives and greatly minimize the chance of receiving false positive results due to cross-reactivity with closely-related organisms. This specificity helps eliminate needless confirmation effort, and cost, and helps streamline a company’s safety and quality processes.

Neogen Corporation’s Food Safety Division markets dehydrated culture media, and diagnostic test kits to detect foodborne bacteria, natural toxins, genetic modifications, unique protein, food allergens, drug residues, plant diseases and sanitation concerns. Neogen’s Animal Safety Division markets a complete line of diagnostics, veterinary instruments, veterinary pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, disinfectants, and rodenticides.

Certain portions of this news release that do not relate to historical financial information constitute forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual future results and trends may differ materially from historical results or those expected depending on a variety of factors listed in
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Company’s most recently filed Form 10-K.