EN 15850 Patulin Detection in Apple Pomace Additives
The European Standard EN 15850 specifies a method for the quantitative determination of patulin in apple pomace additives. This standard is particularly relevant for ensuring that food and feed products are safe from mycotoxin contamination, which can pose significant health risks to both humans and animals.
Patulin is a secondary metabolite produced by certain molds (fungi) such as Penicillium and Aspergillus. It has been classified as a potential carcinogen and mutagen, especially in high concentrations. Due to its toxicity, strict regulations have been established for the levels of patulin in food and feed products across Europe.
The standard outlines the use of Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) techniques for accurate quantification. LC-MS is preferred because it offers high sensitivity and specificity, making it ideal for detecting trace amounts of patulin in complex matrices like apple pomace.
Apple pomace additives are a by-product of the juice manufacturing process and are commonly used as feed supplements in animal husbandry. The presence of patulin in these additives can lead to contamination of animal feed, which ultimately affects food safety at the consumer level. Therefore, ensuring compliance with EN 15850 is crucial for manufacturers and suppliers involved in this sector.
The testing procedure described in EN 15850 involves several critical steps:
- Sample Preparation: The apple pomace additive sample undergoes extraction using an appropriate solvent to release patulin into the solution.
- Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Analysis: The extracted solution is then analyzed using LC-MS. This involves injecting the sample onto a chromatographic column, followed by detection and quantification through mass spectrometry.
The standard also provides detailed acceptance criteria to ensure that only samples within specified limits are deemed safe for use in feed products. These criteria are essential to protect both animal health and public safety.
Applied Standards
| Standard Number | Description |
|---|---|
| EN 15850:2017 | Method for the quantitative determination of patulin in apple pomace additives. |
Industry Applications
- In food and feed manufacturing, this method ensures that apple pomace additives meet stringent safety standards.
- The use of LC-MS allows for precise quantification, which is critical in maintaining compliance with EU regulations on mycotoxin levels.
- For quality assurance departments, EN 15850 provides a robust method to monitor the production process and ensure that final products are safe for consumption.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
The implementation of EN 15850 not only ensures compliance with EU regulations but also contributes to the overall quality and safety of apple pomace additives. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers can enhance their reputation for producing safe and reliable products.
Regular testing using LC-MS according to EN 15850 helps identify potential issues early in the production process. This proactive approach allows for corrective actions to be taken promptly, thereby minimizing the risk of contaminated feed reaching the market.
The standard also supports continuous improvement efforts within manufacturing processes, ensuring that all products meet or exceed the specified limits for patulin content. This commitment to quality and reliability is essential in maintaining consumer trust and regulatory compliance.
