EN 22279 Zearalenone Profiling in Infant Animal Feed
The European Standard EN 22279 provides a detailed procedure for determining zearalenone (ZON) levels and profiling in infant animal feed. This service is crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of feeds intended for young animals, as zearalenone can have significant health impacts on their development.
Zearalenone is a mycotoxin produced by certain species of Fusarium fungi that can contaminate grains used in feed production. In infant animal feeds, even low levels of this toxin can cause hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues. The standard EN 22279 specifies precise methods for extracting the zearalenone from the feed matrix, quantifying it through chromatographic techniques such as Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and profiling its presence across different batches.
The testing process involves several critical steps. Initially, a representative sample of infant animal feed is collected following strict protocols to ensure that the sample accurately reflects the quality of the batch. The sample is then processed by extraction techniques, which may vary depending on the type of feed (pellets, mash, etc.). After extraction, the sample undergoes purification and concentration steps before being analyzed using LC-MS/MS.
The acceptance criteria for this testing are stringent to ensure reliability and accuracy. According to EN 22279, any detectable levels of zearalenone must be reported, with limits set by international standards such as ISO 13722-4:2015. The results are typically expressed in parts per billion (ppb), which is an extremely sensitive unit that reflects the minute amounts of the toxin present.
Profiling involves not just quantification but also characterizing the different forms and metabolites of zearalenone, including α-zearalenol and β-zearalenol. This comprehensive approach helps in understanding the full impact of the mycotoxin on feed safety and animal health. The service provider uses state-of-the-art instrumentation to deliver accurate and precise results.
The importance of this testing cannot be overstated for quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement teams working with infant animal feeds. By adhering to EN 22279, organizations can ensure that their products meet the highest safety standards and comply with regulations aimed at protecting young animals.
The customer impact of this service is profound. Infant animal owners and farmers can trust in the quality of the feed they provide, knowing it has been tested for zearalenone according to international standards. This not only enhances animal health but also builds consumer confidence in their products. Compliance with such stringent testing protocols also positions these companies favorably within the market.
The competitive advantage lies in being able to offer a product that is consistently safe and meets or exceeds regulatory requirements. In an industry where safety and quality are paramount, this service can differentiate a company from its competitors by ensuring superior feed quality. Moreover, it aligns with broader sustainability goals by minimizing risks associated with mycotoxin contamination.
- Customer Impact and Satisfaction: By meeting the highest standards of safety and quality, customers gain trust in their products' reliability.
- Competitive Advantage and Market Impact: Adhering to EN 22279 positions companies as leaders in feed safety, enhancing market reputation and customer loyalty.
Industry Applications
The application of EN 22279 Zearalenone Profiling extends beyond just infant animal feeds. It also covers a broader spectrum of feeds for young animals such as calves, piglets, and poultry chicks. This profiling is particularly important in ensuring that feed is safe from contamination during the critical growth stages when animals are most vulnerable to mycotoxin effects.
In addition to feed safety, this service can be beneficial for R&D engineers looking to refine formulations or test new ingredients. By profiling zearalenone levels and metabolites, they can identify potential sources of contamination in their supply chain and develop strategies to mitigate risks.
For procurement teams, ensuring compliance with EN 22279 is essential when selecting suppliers. It helps guarantee that only the highest quality raw materials are used in feed production, reducing the risk of mycotoxin contamination from the start. This proactive approach not only ensures product safety but also supports sustainable practices.
The service can also be applied to monitor the effectiveness of mitigation strategies implemented by farms and processing facilities. By regularly testing feeds against this standard, organizations can track changes in zearalenone levels over time and adjust their protocols as necessary.
