EN 18690 Determination of Nutritional Components in Freeze-Dried Fruits
The European Standard EN 18690 provides a standardized method for determining the nutritional components, including vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients, present in freeze-dried fruits. This service is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of nutrient content declarations on food labels, compliance with international regulations, and supporting research and development efforts related to nutrition.
Freeze-drying, also known as lyophilization, is a gentle dehydration process that minimizes the degradation of heat-sensitive nutrients in fruits. This method preserves the natural color, aroma, texture, and nutritional value of the fruit, making it an ideal specimen for testing under this standard. The primary goal of EN 18690 is to provide a robust framework for measuring the nutrient content in freeze-dried fruits that can be trusted by consumers, regulatory bodies, and industry stakeholders.
The standard specifies precise sample preparation procedures, which include drying the fruit samples at controlled temperatures and pressures before analysis. It also details the analytical methods used to determine specific nutritional components such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B6, folate, potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, fiber content, and more.
Our laboratory uses state-of-the-art equipment and adheres strictly to EN 18690 guidelines. This ensures that the results are accurate, reproducible, and consistent with international standards. Our team of experts is well-versed in this methodology, allowing us to provide clients with reliable data that can be used for various purposes including:
- Labeling compliance
- New product development
- Quality assurance and control
- Research into the nutritional benefits of freeze-dried fruits
- Supply chain integrity verification
The importance of this service cannot be overstated, especially in a market where consumers are increasingly seeking healthier food options. Accurate nutrient content information is essential for maintaining consumer trust and ensuring that products meet regulatory requirements.
| Key Nutrients Measured | Methodology | Standard Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Folate, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron, Calcium, Fiber Content | UV-Vis Spectrophotometry, HPLC, Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy | EN 18690:20XX |
| Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6 | NMR Spectroscopy | EN 18690:20XX |
In summary, the EN 18690 standard is a comprehensive tool for determining nutritional components in freeze-dried fruits. By leveraging this service, clients can ensure that their products meet stringent quality and regulatory standards, thereby enhancing consumer trust and product integrity.
Industry Applications
The determination of nutritional components in freeze-dried fruits is applicable across various sectors within the food and feed industry. Here are some key areas where this service finds application:
- Packaging and Labeling: Accurate nutrient content information helps manufacturers comply with labeling laws and regulations, enhancing consumer trust.
- New Product Development: Researchers can use the results from EN 18690 to innovate new products that offer specific nutritional benefits.
- Supply Chain Management: Ensuring that suppliers meet specified nutrient content standards is crucial for maintaining product quality and integrity throughout the supply chain.
- Regulatory Compliance: This service helps food companies ensure they adhere to local, national, and international regulations related to nutritional labeling.
The results from EN 18690 can also be used in academic research to explore the health benefits of freeze-dried fruits, contributing to a better understanding of their role in human nutrition. This knowledge is vital for formulating evidence-based recommendations on dietary intake and promoting public health.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
The EN 18690 standard ensures that the determination of nutritional components in freeze-dried fruits is conducted with precision, accuracy, and repeatability. Our laboratory employs rigorous quality control measures to ensure that every test result is reliable and consistent.
Our process begins with meticulous sample preparation, where we carefully follow the prescribed procedures outlined in EN 18690. This includes drying the samples at specific temperatures and pressures to minimize nutrient loss. Once prepared, the samples undergo a series of analytical tests using advanced instrumentation such as UV-Vis spectrophotometers, HPLC machines, NMR spectroscopy devices, and atomic absorption spectroscopes.
The results from these instruments are then processed through sophisticated software that ensures data accuracy and consistency. Our laboratory personnel are trained to interpret the results in accordance with EN 18690 guidelines, ensuring compliance with international standards.
We also maintain a robust quality management system that includes regular calibration of equipment, validation of analytical methods, and participation in proficiency testing programs. This comprehensive approach guarantees that our clients receive reliable and trustworthy data every time.
Use Cases and Application Examples
- Packaging Companies: Using EN 18690 results to design labels that accurately reflect the nutrient content of freeze-dried fruits.
- R&D Departments: Leveraging test data for developing new products or enhancing existing ones with higher nutritional value.
- Supply Chain Partners: Ensuring suppliers meet specified nutrient content standards, thereby maintaining product quality and integrity.
- Government Agencies: Verifying that imported freeze-dried fruits comply with local regulations regarding nutrition labeling.
| Use Case | Data Provided | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Packaging Company Labeling | Nutrient content (Vitamins, Minerals) | Accurate labeling compliance |
| R&D Enhancements | New product development insights | Innovative products with enhanced nutritional profiles |
| Supply Chain Verification | Nutrient content validation | Consistent quality across supply chain |
| Government Compliance Checks | Compliance verification reports | Ensured regulatory adherence of imported products |
The use cases and application examples provided demonstrate the versatility and importance of EN 18690 in various aspects of the food industry. By leveraging this standardized method, stakeholders can ensure that their products are not only nutritious but also compliant with international standards.
