FAQs - SLF Detection in Honey

As spotted lanternfly makes headlines across the Northeastern US, we have received a significant amount of feedback from PA beekeepers interested in testing their honey for SLF honeydew residue. In response to this demand, the HPDL has developed a screen to detect SLF DNA in honey using highly sensitive methodology developed in the Lockwood lab at Rutgers. Currently we are using SLF suspect honey samples as environmental monitoring tools to help understand SLF movement and impact in PA and surrounding states.

SLF DNA is detected using a real-time PCR method that can detect extremely low levels of SLF DNA in honey. This method was developed by the Lockwood Lab at Rutgers University to detect SLF in environmental samples and the PSU HPDL modified it for use with honey samples.

When we have your information, we will get in contact with you and mail out a sampling package with return address, the correct number of kits for each sample you plan to submit, a sample information sheet for each sample and instructions on how to collect the samples. When you have completed your collection with the provided instructions, please return the samples with the included return shipping.

When we receive your sample you will be notified by email or phone that it was received and in good condition. Your sample(s) information will be entered into our honey and pollen database so that it/they can be tracked. Please allow 2-4 weeks for SLF identification.

You will be notified by email or USPS whether your sample was positive for SLF DNA 2-4 weeks from when your sample arrives in the lab.

$20.42 per sample for PSU affiliates (students, faculty, staff, alumni)
$32.25 per sample for others (non-PSU client)

Please contact Dr. Michele Mansfield for more specific questions about pricing and for discounts on bulk sample submission -either as an individual or as a group for beekeeper groups & clubs.

Upon receiving your sample(s), you will receive an invoice from the PSU-HPDL and instructions on how to submit your payment.