EN 20912 Ochratoxin Detection in Wine By-Product Feed
The European standard EN 20912 outlines the procedure for detecting ochratoxin A (OTA) contamination in wine by-product feed. This test is crucial as OTA, a mycotoxin produced by certain molds, poses significant risks to animal health and can lead to economic losses within the agricultural sector.
The presence of OTA in feedstuffs not only affects animals' health but also has implications for food safety along the entire supply chain. Regulatory authorities like the European Union have set stringent limits on ochratoxin levels, with a maximum allowable concentration of 5 μg/kg in animal feed. Compliance with these standards is mandatory to ensure both animal well-being and consumer confidence.
The methodology described in EN 20912 involves several key steps: sample preparation, extraction, purification, and quantification using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a fluorescence detector. These procedures are designed to provide accurate and reliable results that can be used for quality control and regulatory compliance.
Understanding the significance of this test is paramount for stakeholders involved in the feed production process. Quality managers need precise data to maintain product integrity, while compliance officers must ensure adherence to international standards. R&D engineers benefit from detailed analytical outputs to innovate safer feed formulations. Procurement teams can leverage these results to select suppliers who meet stringent quality criteria.
Compliance with EN 20912 ensures that the feed by-products derived from wine production are safe for animal consumption, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices and minimizing risks associated with mycotoxin contamination.
Scope and Methodology
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Sampling | Select representative samples from the feed by-products. Ensure that the sample size is adequate to provide accurate results. |
| Extraction | Use a solvent-based extraction method, such as acetonitrile, to extract ochratoxin A from the feed matrix. |
| Purification | Clean up the extracts using solid-phase extraction cartridges to remove interfering compounds. |
| Detection and Quantification | Analyze the purified extracts by HPLC equipped with a fluorescence detector. Calibration standards are prepared according to EN 20912 guidelines. |
Why It Matters
The detection of ochratoxin A in wine by-product feed is critical for several reasons:
To ensure animal health and welfare, as OTA can cause acute toxicity symptoms such as reduced feed intake, weight loss, and impaired growth.
To protect public health by preventing the transfer of ochratoxin to the food chain through contaminated animal products like meat, milk, and eggs.
To comply with EU regulations and maintain a good reputation for wine producers and feed manufacturers.
To support sustainable agricultural practices by reducing waste from winemaking processes and ensuring safe utilization of by-products.
Why Choose This Test
- The test adheres to the latest European standard, providing robust and reliable results.
- Affordable and accessible for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- Highly sensitive detection capabilities ensuring even trace levels of ochratoxin can be identified.
