ISO 18787 Dry Matter Content Analysis in Feed
The analysis of dry matter content is a critical component in ensuring the quality and safety of feed products. This process involves determining the amount of water that has been removed from the feed, which helps in assessing the nutrient density and overall composition of the feed. The ISO 18787 standard specifies a method for the determination of the dry matter content by gravimetric analysis. This service plays a crucial role in quality management, compliance, and research & development (R&D) within the food & feed industry.
The importance of this test cannot be overstated. Properly conducted, it ensures that feed manufacturers can accurately determine the moisture content, which is essential for formulating balanced diets for livestock and pets. This analysis also helps in identifying potential issues such as over-hydration or dehydration, both of which could lead to nutritional deficiencies or excesses.
In terms of quality management, this test provides a robust framework for monitoring feed consistency across batches. Compliance officers rely on the results from these tests to ensure that their products meet regulatory standards and industry best practices. For R&D engineers, understanding the dry matter content is vital in optimizing formulas to cater to specific nutritional needs.
Feed nutrient analysis using ISO 18787 helps procurement teams make informed decisions about ingredient quality by providing precise measurements of moisture levels. This ensures that they are sourcing raw materials that meet the desired specifications and do not introduce variability into their production processes.
The method outlined in ISO 18787 involves drying feed samples at a specified temperature (usually between 105°C to 120°C) until constant weight is achieved. This process allows for accurate determination of dry matter content, which can then be used to calculate other important parameters such as crude protein or digestible energy.
Understanding the nuances of this test requires a deep dive into its technical aspects. The equipment used includes drying ovens capable of maintaining precise temperatures and scales with high accuracy. Specimen preparation involves accurately weighing samples before placing them in pre-weighed containers for drying. Once dried, the samples are re-weighed to calculate the percentage of dry matter.
The acceptance criteria defined by ISO 18787 ensure consistency and reliability in testing results across different laboratories. Compliance with these standards is crucial not only for internal quality control but also for meeting external regulatory requirements set forth by authorities like the FDA or EU regulations.
Accurate dry matter content analysis supports numerous benefits including improved animal performance, enhanced product shelf life, reduced waste, and better resource utilization. By adhering to ISO 18787 guidelines, feed manufacturers can ensure they are providing high-quality products that meet both domestic and international standards.
Scope and Methodology
The scope of the ISO 18787 Dry Matter Content Analysis in Feed test encompasses a detailed process designed to accurately determine the percentage of dry matter present in feed samples. This method is particularly useful for evaluating the quality and consistency of various types of feeds, including grains, proteins, fats, and additives.
The methodology involves several key steps:
- Sampling: Representative samples are collected from multiple locations within a batch to ensure accuracy.
- Preparation: Samples are dried in an oven at 105°C ± 2°C until constant weight is achieved. This process takes approximately 4 hours for most feed materials.
- Weighing: Before and after drying, the samples are weighed on precision scales to calculate the percentage of dry matter.
The acceptance criteria specify that the difference between two consecutive weighings should be less than 0.2% to meet the standard's requirements for accuracy.
By following these steps meticulously, laboratories can produce reliable results that are crucial for maintaining high standards in feed production and distribution.
Industry Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Quality Control | Ensures consistent moisture content across different batches of feed, aiding in maintaining product quality. |
| Regulatory Compliance | Meets international standards set by organizations such as the FDA and EU to ensure compliance with legal requirements. |
| R&D Optimization | Aids in formulating balanced diets tailored to specific nutritional needs of livestock and pets. |
| Ingredient Sourcing | Helps procurement teams choose high-quality raw materials by assessing moisture levels accurately. |
| Animal Performance Enhancement | Supports improved health outcomes in animals due to consistent feed quality. |
| Packaging and Storage Optimization | Reduces waste by optimizing packaging and storage practices based on accurate dry matter content data. |
| Environmental Sustainability | Contributes to more efficient use of resources through precise moisture measurement. |
The above table highlights various applications where the ISO 18787 Dry Matter Content Analysis in Feed test is instrumental. By ensuring accurate measurements, this service supports a range of activities from production to distribution and beyond, all aimed at delivering top-notch feed products that contribute significantly to animal health and welfare.
Why Choose This Test
Accurate Results: The ISO 18787 method ensures precise measurements of dry matter content, providing reliable data for decision-making processes.
International Recognition: Compliance with this standard is recognized globally, ensuring consistency and acceptance across borders.
Compliance Assurance: Ensures that feed products meet regulatory standards set by various authorities, enhancing customer trust.
R&D Support: Provides valuable insights for optimizing formulas to better suit specific nutritional requirements of different species.
Quality Control: Maintains consistent quality across batches by accurately measuring moisture levels in feeds.
Ingredient Quality Assurance: Helps identify high-quality raw materials through accurate dry matter content assessments.
Selecting the ISO 18787 Dry Matter Content Analysis in Feed test offers numerous advantages that are essential for maintaining the highest standards of feed quality and safety. Whether you're a manufacturer, distributor, or researcher, this service provides indispensable tools to support your operations effectively.
