EN 12965 Pyrethroid Residue Profiling in Meat Products
The European Standard EN 12965 provides a comprehensive method for the quantification and profiling of pyrethroid residues in meat products. This standard is particularly relevant given the increasing scrutiny over pesticide use in agriculture, which can lead to unintended residue contamination during production processes.
Pyrethroids are synthetic compounds that mimic natural pyrethrins found in chrysanthemum flowers. They possess broad-spectrum insecticidal properties and are widely used in agricultural practices around the world. Despite their effectiveness, the presence of pyrethroid residues in food can pose health risks if not controlled within safe limits.
The EN 12965 method involves several key steps:
- Sample preparation: Fresh meat samples undergo thorough homogenization to ensure uniformity.
- Liquid-liquid extraction: The extracts are then subjected to liquid-liquid phase separation techniques, which help in isolating the target pyrethroid residues from other components of the sample matrix.
- Solid-phase extraction (SPE): This step further purifies the extract by eliminating interfering substances.
- Instrumental analysis: High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) is employed to detect and quantify pyrethroid residues. This technique ensures high sensitivity and specificity, making it suitable for low-level residue detection.
The results are reported in micrograms per kilogram (µg/kg), which allows for easy comparison with regulatory limits set by various national and international standards such as the Codex Alimentarius Commission guidelines. Compliance with these limits is crucial to ensure food safety and consumer protection.
Our laboratory adheres strictly to EN 12965, ensuring accurate and reliable results that meet or exceed client expectations. We employ experienced analysts who are familiar with all aspects of this method, from sample preparation through final analysis.
Why Choose This Test
- Precision: HPLC-MS/MS technology provides precise quantification of pyrethroid residues down to nanogram levels.
- Sensitivity: Capable of detecting even trace amounts, ensuring no residue escapes detection.
- Rigorously Controlled: Our methods comply with international standards such as EN 12965 and ISO/IEC 17025, guaranteeing accurate results.
- Comprehensive Coverage: The profiling aspect of the test allows for a detailed understanding of residue patterns in meat products.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures that your products meet stringent regulatory requirements set by authorities like the European Commission and World Health Organization (WHO).
Customer Impact and Satisfaction
By ensuring compliance with EN 12965, our clients benefit from enhanced food safety assurance. This reduces the risk of contamination issues that could lead to product recalls or legal disputes. For quality managers and R&D engineers, this means peace of mind knowing their products are free from harmful residues, thus protecting brand reputation.
Compliance also facilitates smoother international trade by ensuring adherence to global standards. Procurement teams can rely on accurate data when sourcing ingredients, further enhancing supply chain transparency and integrity.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Scenario | Description |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Supply Chain Audits | Detecting contamination in raw materials before they enter the processing facility. |
| Product Quality Assurance | Monitoring residues to ensure product consistency and safety post-processing. |
| New Product Development | Identifying potential issues early in development stages, allowing for necessary adjustments. |
| Supply Chain Compliance Audits | Evaluating suppliers' adherence to regulatory standards. |
| Retailer Quality Control | Verifying that products meet specified limits set by the retailer or manufacturer. |
In these scenarios, EN 12965 provides a reliable and standardized approach to quantifying pyrethroid residues. This ensures that all parties involved in the food supply chain can trust the results, fostering greater confidence among consumers as well.
