EN 18245 Multi-Mycotoxin Profiling in Infant Foods
The European Standard EN 18245 provides a harmonized approach to the multi-mycotoxin profiling of infant foods. This standard is pivotal for ensuring that infant food products are safe and free from harmful mycotoxins, which are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain fungi under specific environmental conditions.
Infant nutrition requires stringent safety measures due to the rapid growth and development stages of infants. Exposure to even trace amounts of mycotoxins can have severe health implications for young children. Therefore, the testing method outlined in EN 18245 is designed not only to detect but also to quantify multiple mycotoxin species simultaneously.
The standard covers various types of infant foods including formulas, cereals, and snacks intended for infants under three years old. The target mycotoxins include aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, M1), zearalenone, fumonisin B1, and others as specified in the standard. The method utilizes liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to achieve high sensitivity and specificity.
The testing process begins with thorough sampling of the food products followed by extraction procedures tailored for each matrix type. After extraction, the samples are analyzed using validated methods compliant with EN 18245 guidelines. The results provide a comprehensive profile indicating the presence and concentration levels of mycotoxins in the sample.
This service is particularly valuable to quality managers who must ensure compliance with stringent food safety regulations. Compliance officers can rely on this testing method to verify that infant foods meet international standards, thereby protecting public health. R&D engineers benefit from having precise data on contamination levels which helps them improve product formulations and processes. For procurement teams, knowing the mycotoxin content in incoming materials ensures they source safe ingredients for formulation.
The EN 18245 method offers a robust framework for laboratories to perform accurate multi-mycotoxin profiling. It is essential that labs adhering to this standard are equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation such as LC-MS/MS and trained personnel who understand the intricacies of mycotoxin analysis.
Scope and Methodology
| Target Mycotoxins | Testing Procedure | Sample Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, M1) | Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) | Sample extraction using organic solvents followed by cleanup on solid phase extraction columns. |
| Zearalenone | Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) | Similar to above, but with adjustments for matrix-specific considerations. |
| Fumonisin B1 | Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) | Different extraction methods may be required depending on the food type. |
| Sample Types | Analysis Method | Validation Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Infant Formulas | Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) | Compliance with EN 18245 and ISO standards. |
| Cereals for Infants | Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) | Demonstration of linearity, precision, accuracy, and robustness. |
| Infant Snacks | Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) | Validation against established reference materials. |
International Acceptance and Recognition
The EN 18245 standard has gained significant international recognition, being adopted by regulatory bodies across Europe. This harmonization ensures consistency in mycotoxin testing methods which is crucial for cross-border trade of infant foods. Laboratories accredited to perform tests according to this standard are trusted providers for quality assurance and compliance verification.
Given the stringent requirements set forth by EN 18245, adherence to these guidelines not only enhances product safety but also builds consumer confidence in infant food products. The widespread adoption of this standard reflects its importance in safeguarding public health worldwide.
Competitive Advantage and Market Impact
- Accurate multi-mycotoxin profiling enhances product safety, crucial for maintaining a positive brand reputation.
- Compliance with EN 18245 demonstrates commitment to regulatory standards, appealing to discerning consumers.
- Data-driven insights from comprehensive mycotoxin profiles can lead to process improvements and innovation in infant food formulations.
- Accreditation to perform this testing ensures that the laboratory is at the forefront of quality assurance practices.
The ability to offer EN 18245-compliant services positions laboratories as reliable partners for companies aiming to meet global market demands. This competitive edge fosters long-term relationships with clients and contributes positively to their business growth in the infant nutrition sector.
