EN 24087 Multi-Residue Pesticide Analysis in Oils
The European Standard EN 24087 provides a method for the multi-residue analysis of pesticides in oils. This comprehensive approach ensures that the presence and levels of various pesticide residues can be accurately determined, which is crucial for food safety and compliance with international standards.
This standard applies to vegetable, animal, and synthetic oils used in food products, dietary supplements, and feed formulations. The testing method involves several steps including sample preparation, extraction, clean-up, and analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The procedure is designed to identify a wide range of pesticide residues that could pose health risks if present above permissible limits.
The standard specifies the use of solvent-based extraction methods to extract pesticides from oil samples. After extraction, the sample undergoes clean-up procedures such as solid-phase extraction (SPE) or liquid-liquid partitioning to isolate and concentrate the analytes before analysis by GC-MS. This ensures that only the target compounds are detected without interference from other components in the matrix.
One of the key aspects of EN 24087 is its ability to cover multiple pesticides simultaneously, making it a robust tool for regulatory compliance and quality assurance purposes. Compliance with this standard helps food manufacturers ensure that their products meet strict European Union (EU) regulations regarding pesticide residues in foods.
The adoption of EN 24087 also supports the goals set forth by international bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and Codex Alimentarius Commission. These organizations recommend harmonized analytical methods to ensure consistency across different countries and regions, thus protecting consumer health.
For quality managers and compliance officers, adhering to EN 24087 ensures that their operations comply with EU directives on pesticide residues in foodstuffs. For R&D engineers, the standard provides a benchmark for developing new formulations while maintaining safety standards. Procurement teams benefit by verifying suppliers' adherence to these stringent requirements.
The multi-residue nature of EN 24087 allows laboratories to perform comprehensive analyses efficiently, reducing costs and time spent on individual tests for each pesticide. This efficiency is particularly beneficial when dealing with complex matrices like oils which may contain numerous potential contaminants.
Implementing EN 24087 also enhances customer confidence by demonstrating a commitment to high-quality production processes free from harmful substances. By conducting thorough analyses, businesses can protect themselves against legal actions and maintain their reputation in the marketplace.
