EN 14132 Ochratoxin A Testing in Barley and Malt
The European Standard EN 14132 provides a method for the determination of ochratoxin A (OTA) in barley, malt, and finished alcoholic beverages. This test is crucial for ensuring food safety and quality compliance with international regulations such as EU Directive 2006/578/EC.
Ochratoxin A is a mycotoxin produced by certain molds, primarily Aspergillus species, which can contaminate crops during growth or processing. OTA contamination in barley and malt poses significant health risks, including nephrotoxicity and carcinogenic potential. The standard outlines the procedures for sample preparation, extraction, and quantitative analysis using HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography).
Our laboratory adheres strictly to EN 14132 guidelines ensuring accurate and reliable results. We use advanced instrumentation such as Agilent 1260 Infinity LC with ZORBAX Eclipse Plus C18 column for precise separation of ochratoxin A from other compounds.
The testing process begins with thorough sample preparation, which involves drying the barley or malt samples to a constant weight at specific temperatures and relative humidity levels. After grinding into fine powder, extraction is performed using methanol-water mixtures under controlled conditions. Post-extraction, clean-up steps may involve solid phase extraction cartridges to remove interfering substances.
The extracted solutions undergo analysis via HPLC equipped with fluorescence detection for enhanced sensitivity. This method allows us to achieve LOD (Limit of Detection) as low as 0.1 μg/kg in barley and malt samples. Reporting is comprehensive, detailing OTA concentrations alongside compliance assessments against relevant regulatory limits set by EU regulations.
Our team of experienced scientists provides expert consultation throughout the entire process, offering guidance on sample collection, storage, and handling to minimize contamination risks. By leveraging our expertise, you can ensure your products meet stringent safety standards while maintaining market integrity.
- Compliance: Ensures adherence to EU Directive 2006/578/EC limits for OTA in foodstuffs.
- Precision: Achieves sub-μg/kg detection levels using state-of-the-art HPLC equipment.
Our commitment to quality and accuracy makes us a trusted partner for businesses operating within the European Union. With our EN 14132-compliant services, you can confidently supply safe and compliant products to consumers across Europe.
Applied Standards
The EN 14132 standard is widely recognized and applied in various sectors including food manufacturing, agricultural commodities, and beverage production. It ensures that all stakeholders involved—from farmers cultivating barley and malt to brewers producing alcoholic beverages—follow consistent practices for OTA detection.
This standard plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public health by preventing the consumption of contaminated products. Regulatory bodies rely on accurate results generated through this method to enforce compliance measures effectively. For instance, EU Directive 2006/578/EC mandates strict limits on OTA content in foodstuffs, which aligns with EN 14132 requirements.
By adhering strictly to these standards during product development and quality assurance processes, companies can enhance their reputation as reliable suppliers of safe products. Our laboratory’s proficiency in implementing EN 14132 ensures that every batch tested meets the highest level of safety expectations set forth by regulatory authorities.
Benefits
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to EU Directive 2006/578/EC and other relevant regulations.
- Health & Safety: Protects consumers from potential health risks associated with OTA contamination.
- Brand Reputation: Builds trust among customers by demonstrating commitment to product safety.
- Competitive Advantage: Demonstrates leadership in quality assurance and food safety standards.
By incorporating EN 14132 testing into your quality control protocols, you not only safeguard public health but also enhance your brand image and competitive position. Our laboratory offers comprehensive support to help you meet these goals effectively.
Customer Impact and Satisfaction
Our clients benefit greatly from our EN 14132 testing services, achieving peace of mind knowing their products meet strict regulatory requirements. Customer satisfaction is paramount for us; thus, we provide transparent communication throughout the testing process.
- Timely Communication: Regular updates on sample status and results.
- Expert Consultation: Guidance on best practices for sample preparation and handling.
- Comprehensive Reporting: Detailed reports including OTA concentrations and compliance assessments.
Client testimonials consistently highlight our commitment to accuracy, reliability, and customer service. We pride ourselves on building long-term partnerships based on trust and mutual success.
