Development and validation of a novel real-time PCR method for the detection of celery (Apium graveolens) in food

► Detection of three celery varieties: celery roots, celery stalks and leaf celery. ► Method is specific for celery, no cross-reactivity with 64 biological species. ► Influence of the DNA extraction method on the number of false negative results. ► The data demonstrate the necessity to verify labelling of commercial food products. ► Possibility to develop a duplex real-time PCR method for celery and mustard in future.