Quantitative real-time PCR method with internal amplification control to quantify cyclopiazonic acid producing molds in foods

► A TaqMan qPCR based on dmaT gene was developed to quantify cyclopiazonic acid (CPA)-producing molds. ► The designed method includes an internal amplification control (IAC) that excluded successfully false negative results. ► The detection limit of the TaqMan qPCR in foods ranged from 1 to 2 log cfu/g. ► The developed qPCR with IAC allows a reliable and rapid quantification of CPA producers in naturally infected foods.