Malachite green (MG) is one of a group of triphenyl methane dyes that exhibits antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. Malachite green acts as a respiratory poison and damages the cells ability to produce energy to drive vital metabolic processes. It is commonly used in the aquaculture industry to treat Saprolegnia (fungus) either when present on the fish or as a prophylactic treatment to protect fish eggs from infection. When it breaks down it forms a derivative called leucomalachite (LMG) that is believed to persist in the muscle tissue of the fish. Malachite green and leucomalachite are believed to have carcinogenic properties and are now banned from use in the aquaculture industry in Australia. MG is inexpensive to buy and is still used in other applications and continues to be used in many other parts of the world due to the lack of an authorised alternative. Therefore, it is necessary to continue monitoring banned therapeutic drugs to ensure adulterated food is not imported into Australia. In addition to antibiotic residues, Leeder Consulting has validated procedures for a range of other tests including: Amino Acids, Anthelmintics, Additives, Pesticide Residues, Preservatives and Vitamins.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control are primary considerations when undertaking food analysis. Leeder Consulting is AS/NZS ISO Certified, the laboratory is NATA Accredited, a Registered Quarantine Laboratory and "Appointed Analyst" under the Commonwealth Imported Food Control Act.

Liquid Chromatography / Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS) Methods are preferable for analysing residues in food because of the high selectivity and sensitivity of MS Detection.

Leeder Consulting’s Food Laboratory is staffed by highly trained, qualified chemists and equipped with dedicated, state of the art equipment including the latest Agilent "Ion Trap" Mass Spectrometer.