EN 19456 Multi-Mineral Analysis in Organic Food Products

The European standard EN 19456 specifies procedures and requirements for multi-mineral analysis of organic food products. This service is critical for ensuring that organic food products meet the stringent mineral content standards set by regulatory bodies such as EU regulation (EC) No 834/2007 on organic production.

Organic food products are subject to rigorous testing to verify their compliance with organic certification requirements, which include specific limits and guidelines for trace elements. This analysis ensures that the mineral content does not exceed or fall below permissible ranges, thereby maintaining the integrity of organic certification.

The process involves several steps, including sample preparation where raw materials undergo homogenization to ensure uniformity, followed by digestion using appropriate reagents to release all targeted minerals into solution. The digested samples are then analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), which offer high precision and sensitivity necessary for detecting even trace levels of essential elements.

The primary objective is to provide accurate data on the presence and concentration of various minerals, including calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, sodium, potassium, and others. The results help stakeholders understand the nutritional profile and potential health benefits associated with consuming organic food products.

Mineral	Testing Method	Acceptance Criteria (ppm)
Copper	ICP-MS	<20 ppm max.
Zinc	ICP-OES	>15 ppm min., <40 ppm max.
Magnesium	ICP-MS	>25 ppm min., <75 ppm max.
Sodium	ICP-OES	<100 ppm max.
Potassium	ICP-MS	>300 ppm min., <950 ppm max.

The results of this analysis are crucial for quality managers and compliance officers who need to ensure that their products meet regulatory standards. R&D engineers can use these data points to optimize formulations, while procurement teams benefit from having reliable mineral content information to source quality raw materials.

Organic food products require precision in mineral testing due to the stringent rules governing the production of such goods. This service ensures not only compliance but also enhances consumer confidence by providing transparent nutritional information.

Applied Standards

EN 19456: Multi-mineral analysis in organic food products
Regulation (EC) No 834/2007 on organic production

The EN 19456 standard provides a framework for analyzing the mineral content of organic food products, ensuring that producers adhere to strict guidelines set forth by relevant regulatory bodies. This analysis is particularly important because it helps verify that the product does not contain any prohibited substances and maintains its organic certification status.

According to EN 19456, the testing process must follow specific protocols to ensure accuracy and reliability. These include sample preparation methods designed to break down complex matrices into simpler forms suitable for analysis by ICP-OES or ICP-MS instruments. The acceptance criteria specified in this standard are critical as they define what constitutes acceptable levels of various minerals within organic food products.

The application of these standards ensures that the testing process is standardized across different laboratories, providing consistent results that can be relied upon for regulatory compliance and quality assurance purposes.

Benefits

Ensures strict adherence to organic production regulations
Provides reliable data on mineral content for informed decision-making
Supports product development through accurate nutritional profiling
Safeguards against contamination and non-compliance risks

The benefits of EN 19456 multi-mineral analysis in organic food products extend beyond mere compliance with regulations. By providing precise mineral content data, this service enables stakeholders to make well-informed decisions that enhance the quality and safety of their products.

For producers, it offers a means to verify that their processes are meeting the highest standards for organic certification. This can lead to increased market confidence and better brand positioning in the competitive organic food market. In addition, the detailed nutritional information provided by these tests can help guide product development efforts aimed at offering consumers healthier options.

From an operational standpoint, ensuring compliance with EN 19456 helps protect against potential legal issues associated with non-compliance. It also supports internal quality control measures that contribute to overall business efficiency and effectiveness.

Eurolab Advantages

Eurolab offers comprehensive services tailored specifically towards meeting the demands of organic food product testing as per EN 19456. Our team of experts employs advanced analytical techniques to ensure accurate and reliable results, which are essential for maintaining high standards in organic production.

State-of-the-art instrumentation including ICP-OES and ICP-MS
Experienced and certified analysts with deep knowledge of organic food analysis
Comprehensive quality assurance systems to guarantee consistent accuracy
Dedicated support team available 24/7 for any inquiries or assistance needed

We pride ourselves on delivering services that not only meet but exceed client expectations. With our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, Eurolab stands out as a leader in organic food product testing across Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of EN 19456?

EN 19456 establishes procedures and requirements for multi-mineral analysis in organic food products, ensuring compliance with EU regulations on organic production.

How long does the testing process take?

The complete testing process typically takes around 7-10 business days from receipt of the sample. This includes preparation, digestion, and analysis phases.

Can you perform this service for non-organic products?

While our primary focus is on organic food products, we can also provide similar services for other types of food and feed products. Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

What kind of samples do you accept?

We accept a variety of samples including dried fruits, nuts, grains, pulses, and other plant-based organic food products. Specific sample types may vary depending on the nature of the analysis requested.

Are there any additional charges?

Additional charges may apply based on factors such as sample size, complexity of testing, and special requests. All fees will be communicated upfront upon request.

How do I get started with this service?

To initiate the EN 19456 multi-mineral analysis, please submit a sample along with your specific requirements via our online portal or contact our dedicated support team.

What kind of reports can I expect?

You will receive a detailed report outlining the mineral content of your sample, including all relevant data points and comparison against acceptance criteria specified in EN 19456.

Is this service available worldwide?

While our primary laboratory is based in Europe, we offer shipping and handling services to facilitate sample submission from other regions. Please inquire for details on international options.