Codex STAN 118 Standard for Gluten-Free Foods
The Codex STAN 118 standard is an international guideline designed to ensure that foods labeled as gluten-free meet specific criteria, thereby protecting individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity from accidental exposure. This standard was developed by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), which sets global food safety and quality standards.
GLUTEN-FREE FOODS UNDER THE CODEX STAN 118:
- Foods that contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten
- Foods produced in facilities where other foods containing gluten are processed, provided they meet the gluten content requirement
- Processed foods with ingredients derived from grains and seeds not known to contain gluten
The standard is particularly significant for food manufacturers as it provides a clear framework for labeling products accurately. It helps ensure that consumers can trust labels indicating that a product is safe for those who must avoid gluten.
Compliance with this standard ensures that the integrity of the gluten-free market remains intact, safeguarding public health and consumer confidence. This is especially important given the rise in prevalence of celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
The Codex STAN 118 applies to a wide range of food products, including but not limited to baked goods, cereals, pasta, sauces, soups, and snacks. Compliance with this standard is critical for companies aiming to meet the demands of their customers who follow a gluten-free diet.
Testing methods under Codex STAN 118 are designed to be sensitive enough to detect trace amounts of gluten without causing false positives. This ensures that food products labeled as gluten-free truly meet the strict thresholds set by this standard.
The importance of accurate testing cannot be overstated, especially in light of the potential health risks associated with gluten exposure for individuals diagnosed with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. The Codex STAN 118 helps mitigate these risks by providing a robust framework that ensures food products are safe and accurately labeled.
Testing laboratories must adhere to stringent protocols to ensure accurate results, which is why our laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced personnel who specialize in gluten-free testing. We employ rigorous quality control measures to guarantee the reliability of our test results.
Applied Standards
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| Codex STAN 118: Gluten-Free Foods | This standard defines the requirements for foods labeled as gluten-free, including the acceptable levels of gluten (less than 20 ppm) and processing conditions. |
| ASTM E1496-15: Standard Practice for Determination of Residual Gluten in Foods Intended to be Labeled “Gluten-Free” by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) | This standard specifies the use of ELISA to detect trace amounts of gluten, which is a critical method under Codex STAN 118. |
| ISO/TS 21937: Gluten-Free Foods - Determination of Gluten Content in Processed Foods by Enzymatic and Spectrophotometric Methods | This technical specification provides guidance on determining gluten content using enzymatic and spectrophotometric methods. |
| EN ISO 21596: Gluten-Free Foods - Determination of Residual Gluten Content in Processed Foods by Enzymatic and Spectrophotometric Methods | An equivalent European standard to the ISO specification, providing additional detail on testing methodologies for gluten-free foods. |
The application of these standards ensures that our laboratory remains at the forefront of food safety and quality assurance. Our expertise in adhering to international guidelines guarantees accurate and reliable results for all clients.
Scope and Methodology
| Scope | Description |
|---|---|
| Detection of Gluten in Foods Intended to be Labeled “Gluten-Free” | This involves testing for the presence of gluten at levels less than 20 ppm. |
| Validation of Processing Methods Ensuring Gluten Content Below Thresholds | We verify that food products processed under specified conditions meet the Codex STAN 118 requirements. |
| Ensuring Compliance with International Guidelines for Gluten-Free Labeling | This includes confirming adherence to all relevant international standards and regulations. |
The methodology employed in our laboratory is meticulous, ensuring that every test performed adheres strictly to the requirements set by Codex STAN 118. Our approach combines cutting-edge technology with stringent quality control measures to deliver accurate and reliable results.
Our testing process begins with careful specimen preparation, followed by the application of validated methods such as ELISA or spectrophotometric techniques to measure gluten content. This is complemented by robust quality assurance checks at various stages to minimize the risk of errors. The final step involves reporting results in a clear and concise manner, ensuring full transparency for our clients.
By adhering strictly to these methods, we ensure that each test conducted meets the highest standards of accuracy and reliability. This is essential not only for compliance with Codex STAN 118 but also for protecting public health and maintaining consumer trust in gluten-free products.
Environmental and Sustainability Contributions
- Eco-Friendly Testing Materials: Our laboratory uses eco-friendly materials where possible, reducing waste and environmental impact.
- Energy-Efficient Operations: We have implemented energy-efficient practices in our testing facilities to minimize carbon footprint.
- Reduced Chemical Usage: By optimizing test protocols, we reduce the amount of chemicals used in testing, contributing to a more sustainable approach.
Incorporating these environmental and sustainability contributions into our operations not only supports global efforts towards sustainability but also aligns with our commitment to responsible business practices. Our laboratory is dedicated to minimizing its ecological footprint while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality.
