EN 20913 Fungicide Profiling in Dairy-Based Products
The European Standard EN 20913 provides a robust framework for profiling fungicides in dairy-based products. This service is particularly important as it ensures that the use of fungicides does not compromise food safety and quality, which are critical aspects in the dairy industry. The standard allows laboratories to analyze various types of fungicides that could be present in milk, cheeses, yogurts, and other dairy derivatives.
The methodology outlined in EN 20913 is designed to detect trace amounts of fungicides through a combination of sample preparation, chromatographic analysis, and mass spectrometry. This approach ensures high sensitivity and specificity, making it an ideal tool for compliance with international standards such as ISO or EU regulations.
The service involves several key steps:
- Sample collection: Fresh samples from dairy farms and processing plants are collected according to strict guidelines set by EN 20913.
- Preparation: Samples undergo detailed preparation, including extraction of the target compounds using appropriate solvents followed by clean-up procedures to remove matrix interferences.
- Analytical techniques: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) is used for precise identification and quantification of fungicides.
- Validation: Results are compared against established limits set by regulatory bodies like the European Commission to ensure compliance.
The importance of this service cannot be overstated, especially given that fungicides can have adverse effects on human health if present in excess. By adhering strictly to EN 20913, laboratories contribute significantly to maintaining consumer confidence and ensuring the safety and quality of dairy products.
Compliance with international standards like EN 20913 is essential for several reasons:
- It ensures that all testing methods are consistent across different regions.
- It helps in maintaining a uniform approach towards food safety.
- It supports traceability and accountability within the supply chain.
The use of fungicides in dairy products is regulated by various authorities worldwide. In Europe, for instance, the European Commission has set maximum residue limits (MRLs) for certain fungicides. EN 20913 ensures that these MRLs are meticulously adhered to, thereby protecting public health and ensuring product quality.
Given the complexity of dairy products, which can contain a variety of ingredients from multiple sources, it is crucial to use standardized methods like those provided in EN 20913. This not only enhances accuracy but also aids in identifying potential issues early on, allowing for corrective actions if necessary.
Benefits
Enhanced food safety: Ensures that dairy products are free from harmful fungicides, protecting public health.
Increased consumer trust: Demonstrates a commitment to quality and compliance with international standards.
Improved regulatory compliance: Helps businesses stay within the legal limits set by various regulatory bodies.
Supports traceability: Facilitates tracking of products throughout the supply chain, ensuring accountability at all stages.
Eurolab Advantages
We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive and efficient EN 20913 fungicide profiling service. Our team comprises experts with extensive experience in food safety and quality assurance, ensuring accurate and reliable results every time.
Our state-of-the-art facilities equipped with advanced chromatography and mass spectrometry instruments guarantee precision and efficiency. Additionally, we provide detailed reports that include all necessary information to help you meet regulatory requirements and make informed decisions about your products.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Dairy Farm Quality Assurance | Ensuring that fungicides are not present in excess quantities, thereby maintaining product quality. |
| Dairy Product Export Compliance | Meeting the stringent requirements of importing countries to avoid non-compliance penalties. |
| R&D Projects | Supporting research and development efforts by providing accurate data for new formulations or processes involving fungicides. |
| Dairy Supply Chain Integrity | Maintaining a transparent and reliable supply chain where all parties are aware of the quality and safety standards being met. |
