EN 19462 Pesticide Profiling in Frozen Foods
The European Standard EN 19462 provides a comprehensive framework for pesticide profiling in frozen foods. This service ensures the accurate detection of pesticides that may be present, ensuring compliance with international and national regulations. The standard covers various aspects including sample preparation, instrumental analysis, data interpretation, and reporting.
Our laboratory adheres strictly to EN 19462 guidelines to offer reliable pesticide residue testing services for frozen food products. This includes a wide range of items such as fruits, vegetables, meats, and other processed foods commonly found in the frozen food sector. The service is designed not only to meet regulatory requirements but also to ensure product safety and quality.
The process begins with proper sample preparation which involves careful selection and slicing of the frozen food item to ensure representative sampling. This step is critical for accurate analysis, as it directly influences the results obtained from subsequent instrumental methods. Once prepared, samples are analyzed using advanced chromatographic techniques such as Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
The use of these sophisticated instruments allows for the precise identification and quantification of pesticide residues down to very low levels. The standard specifies acceptable limits based on maximum residue levels (MRLs), which are set by regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Compliance with these MRLs is crucial for maintaining consumer confidence and ensuring that no harmful substances enter the food chain.
After analysis, data interpretation plays a vital role in determining whether the detected pesticide residues fall within acceptable limits. This involves comparing the measured values against established thresholds provided by EN 19462. Any deviations from these standards are thoroughly investigated to identify potential sources of contamination and implement corrective actions.
Reporting is another key component of our service offering under EN 19462. Detailed reports are generated, providing clients with comprehensive insights into the pesticide profiling results for their specific frozen food products. These reports include all relevant analytical data along with interpretations, ensuring transparency and ease of understanding.
| Scenario | Description |
|---|---|
| Retailer Assurance | Verifying compliance with regulatory standards for imported frozen produce. |
| Packaging and Processing Integrity | Evaluating potential contamination risks during processing stages. |
| R&D Innovation | Identifying safe pesticide usage in new product formulations. |
Quality and Reliability Assurance
- Strict adherence to European Standard EN 19462.
- Use of state-of-the-art instrumentation including GC-MS and LC-MS/MS.
- Regular calibration and validation of analytical methods.
- Continuous training of personnel on latest methodologies and standards.
Competitive Advantage and Market Impact
- Achieving regulatory compliance which enhances brand reputation.
- Enhancing product safety, thereby increasing consumer trust.
- Gaining a competitive edge by ensuring high-quality frozen food products.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Scenario | Description |
|---|---|
| Retailer Assurance | Verifying compliance with regulatory standards for imported frozen produce. |
| Packaging and Processing Integrity | Evaluating potential contamination risks during processing stages. |
| R&D Innovation | Identifying safe pesticide usage in new product formulations. |
