EN 20912 Ochratoxin Detection in Wine
The European Standard EN 20912 provides a harmonized method for the determination of ochratoxin A (OTA) in wine. This service ensures that wineries and food safety professionals can detect OTA, which is a potent nephrotoxic mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus species. Ochratoxin contamination poses significant health risks to consumers, especially when consumed in large quantities over extended periods.
The presence of ochratoxin A in wine can be attributed to the growth of mold on grapes or during storage after harvest. Wine produced from contaminated grapes may contain OTA at levels that exceed legal limits set by regulatory bodies such as the European Union and the World Health Organization (WHO). Regulatory standards like ISO 11290-3 outline acceptable thresholds for mycotoxins in foodstuffs, including wine.
Our laboratory adheres to this standard and offers a comprehensive service that includes:
- Sample preparation and extraction using validated methods.
- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection for accurate quantification.
- Precision and accuracy checks through certified reference materials.
- Detailed reports aligned with EN 20912 requirements, including limits of detection and quantitation.
The process begins with the receipt of a sample. Our team then performs the following steps:
- Visual inspection for any visible mold or contamination.
- Preparation of the sample according to EN 20912 guidelines, which may involve maceration and extraction.
- Analytical testing using HPLC equipped with a fluorescence detector to identify OTA.
The sensitivity of our method is such that it can detect ochratoxin A down to 0.5 μg/L in wine. This level is critical for ensuring the safety and quality of the product, especially when exporting to markets with strict regulatory requirements.
The methodology described in EN 20912 ensures consistency and reliability across different laboratories, reducing discrepancies that can arise from non-harmonized methods.
Our clients benefit from our expertise in mycotoxin detection by gaining confidence in the safety of their products. This service is essential for compliance with international standards and contributes to maintaining brand reputation and consumer trust.
Benefits
Detecting ochratoxin A in wine not only ensures regulatory compliance but also enhances the overall quality of the product. Our service offers several key advantages:
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures that all products meet EU and WHO guidelines for mycotoxin limits.
- Quality Assurance: Identifies potential contamination early, allowing for corrective actions before it affects the entire batch.
- Risk Management: Minimizes health risks associated with ochratoxin exposure by identifying contaminated batches.
- Consumer Confidence: Builds trust among consumers who value product safety and quality.
The early detection of ochratoxin A in wine is crucial for maintaining brand integrity and protecting the health of consumers. This service not only helps wineries meet legal requirements but also enhances their reputation as producers of safe, high-quality products.
Industry Applications
The application of EN 20912 in the wine industry is critical for ensuring that products meet stringent safety standards. The service we offer supports these sectors by providing reliable and accurate results.
Environmental and Sustainability Contributions
- Eco-friendly Practices: By identifying contaminated batches early, our service helps reduce waste in the wine production process.
- Resource Optimization: Ensuring that only safe products reach market minimizes the environmental impact of mycotoxin contamination.
- Health and Safety: Reducing ochratoxin exposure contributes to a healthier environment for both workers and consumers.
The detection of ochratoxin A in wine is not only important for compliance but also plays a role in sustainability efforts by minimizing waste and ensuring the health and safety of all involved parties.
