EN 19426 Protein Digestibility Analysis in Pet Foods
The EN 19426 standard provides a standardized method to determine the digestibility of protein in pet foods. This is critical for ensuring that pet food formulations meet nutritional requirements and support the health and well-being of pets. The test measures how much ingested protein is actually absorbed by the animal's body, which helps in optimizing nutrient absorption and preventing waste.
The importance of this analysis cannot be overstated, especially given the increasing focus on pet nutrition and the health implications for animals. Digestible protein ensures that pets receive the necessary amino acids to maintain muscle mass, support bone structure, and enhance overall immunity. This is particularly crucial in formulations aimed at specific life stages or medical conditions.
The procedure involves feeding a defined amount of test food to adult dogs or cats under controlled conditions. After collection of fecal samples, the nitrogen content in both the consumed food and excreted waste is measured. The difference between these values indicates the amount of protein that has been digested. This calculation provides an accurate measure of protein digestibility.
This test is essential for pet food manufacturers to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to differentiate their products from competitors. It also helps in formulating more efficient and palatable diets, which can lead to enhanced consumer satisfaction. For quality managers, this analysis offers a robust tool to monitor production processes and ingredient sourcing.
The standard applies not only to commercial pet foods but also to homemade recipes that are intended for long-term consumption by pets. It ensures that the protein content is optimally utilized, thereby supporting the health of pets in the best possible way.
Moreover, this analysis is a key component in research and development (R&D) efforts aimed at creating novel pet food products. By understanding how different types of proteins are digested, manufacturers can innovate to provide more tailored nutrition solutions for various breeds, sizes, and life stages of pets.
The results from EN 19426 can be used in conjunction with other analytical methods such as amino acid profiles (ISO 5380), which further elucidate the quality and digestibility of protein sources. Together, these analyses provide a comprehensive picture of pet food composition and nutritional value.
Scope and Methodology
| Step | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Sample Preparation | Define the test food and ensure it is representative of the product. | A defined amount of pet food is prepared for digestion, typically 10 grams per kilogram of body weight for dogs or cats. |
| Feeding Protocol | Feed adult pets under controlled conditions to ensure consistent results. | The pets are fed the test diet for a specified period before collection of fecal samples. |
| Fecal Collection | Collect and preserve fecal samples accurately. | Feces should be collected immediately after defecation, stored refrigerated, and analyzed within 24 hours. |
| Nitrogen Determination | Determine nitrogen content in consumed food and excreted waste. | This is done using standard gravimetric or colorimetric methods as per EN ISO 6865-1:2013 for total nitrogen determination. |
| Calculation of Digestibility | Calculate the difference in nitrogen content to determine protein digestibility. | The formula used is: Protein Digestibility (%) = [(Total Nitrogen in Consumed Food - Total Nitrogen in Excreted Waste) / Total Nitrogen in Consumed Food] * 100. |
| Reporting and Compliance | Report the results according to EN 19426 standards. | All data must be accurately reported, including sample preparation, digestion period, and nitrogen content values. |
Eurolab Advantages
As a leading laboratory in food testing, Eurolab offers unparalleled expertise in EN 19426 compliance. Our team of experienced scientists and analysts ensures that every test is conducted according to the latest standards, providing reliable and repeatable results.
We employ state-of-the-art equipment and methods, such as advanced nitrogen analyzers (EN ISO 6865-1:2013) and controlled feeding protocols that mimic real-life pet consumption scenarios. This approach guarantees accurate assessments of protein digestibility in various pet food products.
Our comprehensive service package includes not only the standard test but also additional analyses such as amino acid profiles (ISO 5380). This holistic approach helps manufacturers gain a deeper understanding of their product's nutritional value, enabling them to make informed decisions about ingredient selection and formulation adjustments.
At Eurolab, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Our ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation ensures that all our services meet the highest international standards for accuracy and reliability. We are dedicated to supporting pet food manufacturers in their quest for excellence through robust testing solutions.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
The quality of Eurolab's services is underpinned by stringent internal controls and external audits. Our laboratories are ISO/IEC 17025 accredited, ensuring that all analytical methods meet the highest standards for precision and accuracy.
We invest in cutting-edge technology to support our testing capabilities, including nitrogen analyzers (EN ISO 6865-1:2013) and controlled feeding facilities. These resources enable us to provide consistent and reliable results across a wide range of pet food products.
Our team comprises highly trained professionals with extensive experience in the field of food testing. They are committed to maintaining the integrity of each test, ensuring that results are accurate and actionable for manufacturers.
In addition to our robust quality management system, Eurolab maintains strong relationships with regulatory bodies and industry associations. This ensures that we remain up-to-date with the latest standards and guidelines, allowing us to provide services that meet or exceed client expectations.
