EN 17199 Determination of Nitrogen-to-Protein Conversion Factors
The European Standard EN 17199 provides a comprehensive method for determining the nitrogen-to-protein conversion factor (NPF) using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS). This service is crucial in quality assurance and compliance, especially for food and feed manufacturers who rely on accurate nutrient analysis to ensure product safety and nutritional adequacy.
Proteins are a significant component of dietary intake, and the conversion factor between nitrogen content and protein is essential for calculating protein levels accurately. The method described in EN 17199 is widely used across various sectors, including food manufacturing, animal feed production, and quality control laboratories. This service ensures that products meet international standards and regulatory requirements.
The testing process involves the following steps:
- Sample preparation: Samples are dried to a consistent moisture content before analysis.
- Spectroscopy measurement: Near-Infrared Spectra (NIR) of the samples are captured using an NIR spectrometer.
- Data processing: The NIR data is processed against a reference dataset to derive the NPF for each sample.
The accuracy and reliability of this method make it a preferred choice among food and feed manufacturers. The service ensures that products meet strict nutritional standards, thereby enhancing consumer trust and compliance with international regulations such as ISO 17199:2014.
| Sample Preparation | Spectroscopy Measurement | Data Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Dry samples to a consistent moisture content. | Capture NIR spectra using an NIR spectrometer. | Analyze and correlate the NIR data with reference datasets. |
The service provided by our laboratory ensures that all critical aspects of EN 17199 are adhered to, delivering accurate results consistently. This is particularly important for sectors dealing with complex ingredients or blends where precise nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors can significantly impact the nutritional profile and quality assurance.
Why It Matters
The accurate determination of nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors is critical for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that food and feed products meet strict regulatory requirements, enhancing consumer trust and safety. Secondly, precise protein content calculations are vital for optimizing nutrient intake in dietary products. For instance, in animal feed production, the right balance of proteins can significantly affect livestock growth and health.
The method described in EN 17199 is not only a standard but also a reliable tool that helps manufacturers stay ahead of regulatory changes. It ensures that nutritional labeling is accurate and aligns with international standards like ISO 17199:2014, which are increasingly adopted globally.
Furthermore, the service supports research and development efforts by providing consistent data for new product formulations. This consistency allows manufacturers to innovate while maintaining compliance and quality assurance. The method is also beneficial in supply chain management, ensuring that all parties involved have access to reliable nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors.
Scope and Methodology
The scope of EN 17199 covers the determination of the nitrogen-to-protein conversion factor using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS). This method is particularly useful for analyzing complex samples that may contain a variety of compounds, making traditional wet chemistry methods less efficient or accurate.
| Scope | Methodology |
|---|---|
| Determination of NPF using NIRS. | Data processing and correlation with reference datasets. |
The methodology involves several key steps:
- Sampling: Representative samples are collected from the production line or storage area.
- Preparation: Samples are dried to a consistent moisture content using a drying oven.
- Spectroscopy: NIR spectra of the samples are captured using an NIR spectrometer.
- Data Processing: The NIR data is processed against reference datasets to derive NPF values.
The accuracy and consistency of this method ensure that all samples are analyzed under standardized conditions, providing reliable results. This standardization is crucial for maintaining product quality and compliance across the supply chain.
International Acceptance and Recognition
The EN 17199 method has gained widespread acceptance and recognition across various sectors. It is widely used in food manufacturing, animal feed production, and quality control laboratories worldwide.
- Food Manufacturing: Ensures accurate nutrient labeling and compliance with international standards such as ISO 17199:2014.
- Animal Feed Production: Supports optimized protein content in animal feeds for better livestock growth and health.
The method is also recognized by regulatory bodies such as the European Commission and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). This recognition ensures that the results are widely accepted and can be used across borders.
- Regulatory Bodies: The method is approved by the European Commission and the OIE, ensuring its acceptance in international markets.
The widespread adoption of EN 17199 reflects its reliability and accuracy. This standardization ensures that all parties involved have access to consistent and reliable nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors.
