ISO 134765 Moisture Testing in Barley-Based Feed
The demand for high-quality feed ingredients is critical to ensuring the health and productivity of livestock. In barley-based feeds, moisture content plays a pivotal role in determining the overall quality of the product. Excessive or insufficient moisture can lead to spoilage, mold growth, and potential health risks for animals. This service ensures that moisture levels are within safe and optimal parameters by adhering strictly to ISO 134765:2020 standards.
ISO 134765 specifies the procedures for determining the moisture content of barley-based feeds using gravimetric methods, infrared analysis, or Karl Fischer titration. The process involves drying a representative sample under controlled conditions until it reaches equilibrium with the surrounding air, then measuring the weight loss due to evaporation. This method provides accurate and reliable results that are crucial for maintaining feed quality.
The testing procedure begins with proper sample preparation. A defined amount of barley-based feed is taken from various parts of a batch to ensure representativeness. The samples must be homogenized thoroughly before drying. Drying can occur in an oven or using other approved methods, ensuring the sample reaches equilibrium moisture content (EMC). Once dried, the sample is weighed again and compared with its initial weight to calculate the percentage of moisture.
Understanding the significance of moisture levels helps producers make informed decisions about feed storage, transportation, and formulation. For instance, excess moisture can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage, while too little can cause brittleness and dustiness, affecting palatability and digestibility. By adhering strictly to ISO 134765 guidelines, laboratories ensure that the moisture content of barley-based feeds meets industry standards.
Compliance with these international standards is essential for maintaining product quality and ensuring consumer safety. Laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art equipment like infrared analyzers or Karl Fischer titrators can provide rapid and accurate results. This service not only aids in regulatory compliance but also enhances the reputation of feed producers by delivering consistent, high-quality products.
- Industry Applications: Quality control, formulation optimization, shelf life prediction, and storage conditions evaluation.
- Why Choose This Test: Accuracy, reliability, compliance with international standards, and enhanced product quality.
Applied Standards
The testing protocol for ISO 134765 is based on the principles outlined in ISO 134765:2020, which specifies methods for determining moisture content in barley-based feeds. This international standard ensures that all laboratories conducting this test follow uniform procedures, thereby providing consistent and reliable results.
The method described in ISO 134765 involves drying the sample at a specific temperature (typically between 105°C to 110°C) until it reaches equilibrium with the surrounding air. The time required for this process varies depending on the type of feed and its initial moisture content, but it usually takes several hours. Once dried, the sample is weighed again to calculate the percentage of moisture lost.
The use of gravimetric methods, infrared analysis, or Karl Fischer titration ensures that the results are accurate and precise. Gravimetric methods involve drying the sample in an oven until constant weight is achieved, while infrared analysis uses near-infrared spectroscopy to measure water content directly from the sample. Karl Fischer titration measures moisture by reacting it with a reagent containing iodine.
Adherence to ISO 134765 ensures that laboratories provide results that are comparable and consistent across different regions, which is crucial for international trade and compliance with local regulations.
Industry Applications
- Quality control during production processes to ensure consistent moisture levels.
- Formulation optimization by adjusting the moisture content of feed ingredients.
- Prediction of shelf life and storage conditions for barley-based feeds.
- Evaluation of the impact of different environmental factors on moisture retention in feeds.
By ensuring that moisture levels are within specified limits, this service helps prevent issues such as mold growth, bacterial contamination, and nutritional degradation. It also supports sustainable practices by minimizing waste and optimizing resource usage.
Why Choose This Test
- Accuracy: Rigorous adherence to ISO 134765 ensures precise moisture content measurement.
- Reliability: Consistent results across different batches and locations.
- Compliance: Meeting international standards for quality assurance.
- Innovation: Supporting research and development in feed formulation.
The service offered by this laboratory is essential not only for compliance but also for maintaining the highest standards of product quality. By choosing this test, companies can ensure that their barley-based feeds meet strict industry benchmarks, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and trust.
