EN 12136 Determination of Crude Fat in Dried Fruits
The determination of crude fat content in dried fruits is a critical step in ensuring the quality and safety of food products. This method, specified by EN 12136, provides a standardized approach to quantify the fat content, which can significantly impact the product's nutritional profile and shelf life.
This service is particularly important for industries that rely on dried fruits as key ingredients in their products, such as snack manufacturers, bakery suppliers, and food processors. Accurate measurement of crude fat helps ensure compliance with international standards and regulations while also providing insights into the overall quality of the product.
The process involves several steps to achieve accurate results. First, a representative sample is taken from the batch or lot being analyzed. This sample must be thoroughly mixed before any further processing to ensure homogeneity. The dried fruits are then weighed out to an accuracy of 0.1 grams using precision analytical balances.
The crude fat content can vary depending on the type and variety of fruit, its moisture content, and how it was processed during drying. For instance, apples tend to have lower fat content compared to dates or figs due to their higher water content. Proper specimen preparation is crucial for obtaining reliable results.
After weighing, the dried fruits are placed in a suitable container that will be used for extraction of crude fats. Extraction typically employs solvents such as petroleum ether based on the nature and moisture content of the fruit sample. The choice of solvent depends on factors like the type of fat present (saturated vs unsaturated) and its melting point.
The extracted fats are then collected, dried under reduced pressure to remove residual solvent, and weighed again for final determination of crude fat percentage based on the initial weight of the sample. Compliance with EN 12136 ensures that all these steps follow internationally recognized guidelines, enhancing accuracy and consistency across laboratories.
| Industry | Description |
|---|---|
| Fruit Processing | Involves the production of dried fruits for various uses in food manufacturing. |
| Nutrition Monitoring | Ensures dietary fats are accurately measured to inform consumer health claims. |
Why It Matters
The accurate measurement of crude fat content in dried fruits is vital for several reasons. First, it helps manufacturers adhere to regulatory requirements imposed by food safety organizations worldwide. Secondly, knowing the exact amount allows companies to optimize production processes and ingredient formulations.
- Ensures compliance with international standards like EN 12136
- Aids in developing accurate nutritional labeling information
- Supports quality control initiatives by identifying potential issues early
The importance of this service extends beyond just regulatory adherence. It plays a crucial role in maintaining brand reputation and consumer trust. Consumers expect transparency regarding the ingredients used, especially when they are purchasing products labeled as "low-fat" or "high-fiber."
Benefits
- Compliance: Ensures adherence to international standards and regulations.
- Quality Control: Identifies variations in fat content that could affect product quality.
- Nutritional Information: Provides accurate data for labeling and marketing purposes.
The service also supports research and development efforts by offering precise data on the composition of dried fruits, which can be used to innovate new products or improve existing ones. For procurement teams, it ensures that only high-quality raw materials are selected, thus minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency throughout the supply chain.
Industry Applications
- Fruit Processing: Used in the production of dried fruits for various uses in food manufacturing.
- Nutrition Monitoring: Ensures dietary fats are accurately measured to inform consumer health claims.
- R&D & Innovation: Supports research and development initiatives by providing precise data on fruit composition.
The table below highlights some key applications where this service is particularly useful:
| Industry | Description |
|---|---|
| Fruit Processing | Involves the production of dried fruits for various uses in food manufacturing. |
| Nutrition Monitoring | Ensures dietary fats are accurately measured to inform consumer health claims. |
| R&D & Innovation | Supports research and development initiatives by providing precise data on fruit composition. |
