EN 20573 Zearalenone Profiling in Cereal Feed Products
The European standard EN 20573 provides a comprehensive methodology for the determination of zearalenone (ZON) in cereal-based feed products. Zearalenone is a mycotoxin produced by certain molds, primarily Fusarium graminearum. This mycotoxin has significant implications for animal health and can lead to reduced fertility, reproductive disorders, and other detrimental effects on livestock.
Our laboratory adheres strictly to the procedures outlined in EN 20573, ensuring accurate and reliable results. The standard specifies a validated procedure using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for quantitative analysis of Zearalenone in feed products. This method is sensitive enough to detect even trace amounts of this toxin.
The testing process involves several critical steps:
- Sample Collection and Preparation: Samples are collected from various points within the production facility, ensuring a representative sample set. The samples undergo rigorous preparation to remove any extraneous materials that could affect the accuracy of the test.
- Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE): SPE cartridges are used for cleanup of the samples before analysis. This step ensures that only the analytes of interest, such as Zearalenone, are introduced into the LC-MS/MS system.
- LC-MS/MS Analysis: Once prepared, the sample is injected into an HPLC instrument equipped with a quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (QTOF MS). The system separates the components of the feed matrix and identifies Zearalenone via its unique mass-to-charge ratio.
- Quantification: Quantitative results are derived from calibration curves, which have been established using reference standards that conform to international standards such as ISO 16149. The precision and accuracy of this method ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Data Interpretation: Our team interprets the raw data provided by the LC-MS/MS instrument. This involves comparing the observed peak areas to those expected for Zearalenone, based on established reference curves.
Our laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation and experienced personnel who are adept at handling complex feed matrices. We also offer a range of additional services such as sample storage, transportation, and preliminary screening tests that can be performed before full analysis to save time and resources.
The importance of this testing cannot be overstated. Zearalenone contamination in cereal-based feeds can have far-reaching consequences for animal health and welfare. By providing accurate and reliable results, we help our clients ensure the safety and quality of their feed products. This is crucial not only for ethical reasons but also to maintain compliance with international standards such as EN 20573.
Our services are designed to support various stakeholders in the food & feed industry, including quality managers, compliance officers, research and development engineers, and procurement teams. By adhering strictly to the procedures outlined in EN 20573, we ensure that our clients receive accurate and reliable results that they can trust.
The benefits of this service extend beyond simply detecting Zearalenone levels; it also helps in understanding the profile of contamination in cereal feed products. This information is invaluable for optimizing production processes and ensuring product safety.
Benefits
Adhering to EN 20573 standards offers numerous benefits that are crucial for maintaining high-quality feed products:
- Enhanced Product Safety: By detecting and quantifying Zearalenone, we ensure that the feed meets stringent safety requirements, thereby protecting animal health.
- Avoidance of Regulatory Non-Compliance: Compliance with international standards like EN 20573 is essential for avoiding legal penalties and maintaining a good reputation in the market.
- Improved Feed Efficiency: Understanding the contamination profile allows producers to optimize feed formulation, leading to improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Patient Data Interpretation: Our team provides detailed reports that help stakeholders make informed decisions about production processes and quality control measures.
- Informed Decision-Making: Accurate data enables clients to take proactive steps to prevent contamination, thereby enhancing product safety.
- Customer Satisfaction: Reliable testing results build trust with customers, leading to long-term relationships based on mutual respect and transparency.
- Enhanced Reputation: Compliance with international standards reflects well on the client’s commitment to quality and safety, improving their market position.
In summary, our EN 20573 Zearalenone Profiling service is designed to provide comprehensive support for stakeholders in the food & feed industry. By ensuring product safety, avoiding regulatory issues, enhancing efficiency, and providing valuable data interpretation, we help clients achieve their goals while maintaining high standards of quality.
Eurolab Advantages
At Eurolab, our commitment to excellence in food & feed testing is reflected in the services we offer. Here are some key advantages that set us apart:
- Expertise and Experience: Our team consists of highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in mycotoxin analysis, ensuring accurate results.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with cutting-edge instruments like LC-MS/MS, we provide precise and reliable testing services.
- Comprehensive Support: From sample preparation to data interpretation, our services cover every aspect of the testing process.
- Dedicated Client Support: We offer personalized support to ensure that clients understand their results and can make informed decisions based on them.
- International Recognition: Our laboratory is recognized for its adherence to international standards, ensuring that our results are accepted worldwide.
- Sustainability Focus: In addition to quality control, we also focus on sustainability by minimizing waste and optimizing resource use in our testing processes.
Our commitment to providing high-quality services is reflected in the trust placed in us by clients across various sectors. Whether you are a small-scale producer or a large multinational corporation, Eurolab’s EN 20573 Zearalenone Profiling service offers unparalleled support and expertise.
International Acceptance and Recognition
The European standard EN 20573 is widely recognized for its robustness and reliability, making it a preferred choice for mycotoxin testing in cereal-based feed products. This international acceptance translates into several advantages:
- Standardized Methodology: The EN 20573 methodology ensures that results are consistent across different laboratories, providing confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the data.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many countries around the world recognize this standard as a benchmark for regulatory compliance. This makes it easier to export feed products internationally without facing additional testing requirements.
- Informed Decision-Making: With standardized procedures, stakeholders can make informed decisions based on consistent and reliable data, enhancing their ability to manage risks effectively.
- Market Access: Compliance with EN 20573 opens up market opportunities in regions that prioritize international standards for feed safety.
- Competitive Edge: Offering services aligned with this standard can give businesses a competitive edge by demonstrating their commitment to quality and safety.
- Client Satisfaction: Recognized methodologies lead to greater trust among clients, enhancing overall satisfaction levels.
In summary, the international recognition of EN 20573 underscores its importance in ensuring the quality and safety of cereal-based feed products. By adhering to this standard, businesses can ensure that their operations are aligned with global best practices, thereby fostering trust and reliability among stakeholders.
