ISO 21424 Iodine Analysis in Fortified Foods by ICP-MS
The analysis of iodine in fortified foods using ISO 21424 and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a critical process for ensuring compliance with international food safety standards and regulations. Iodine fortification has been widely adopted as an effective means to prevent deficiencies, particularly in regions where iodine deficiency disorders are prevalent. This method ensures accurate quantification of iodine content, which is essential for maintaining public health.
The analytical procedure described by ISO 21424 focuses on the determination of iodine in fortified foods such as salt, dairy products, and breads. The precision and accuracy of this analysis are crucial for ensuring that fortification levels meet regulatory requirements while minimizing risks associated with excessive intake. This method is particularly important in regions where dietary iodine can be insufficient.
The process involves several key steps: sample preparation, digestion, instrumental analysis using ICP-MS, data processing, and final reporting of results. Each step requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure reliable outcomes. Sample preparation typically entails dissolving the food matrix with appropriate solvents followed by filtering or centrifuging the solution to remove any insoluble particles.
Once prepared, the sample is introduced into the ICP-MS instrument for analysis. The ICP-MS system ionizes the elemental species of interest and then separates them based on mass-to-charge ratio before detection by a mass spectrometer detector. This allows for precise quantification even at very low concentrations.
The analytical performance specifications outlined in ISO 21424 include linearity, limits of detection (LOD), and limits of quantitation (LOQ). Linearity refers to the relationship between measured quantities within specified concentration ranges; LOD represents the lowest amount of analyte that can be detected with a certain level of confidence; LOQ indicates the lowest concentration at which reliable quantitative measurements are possible.
In practice, this method finds application in various sectors including food manufacturing industries, public health organizations, and governmental bodies responsible for setting dietary guidelines. By adhering to these international standards, laboratories provide assurance that fortified products meet specified quality benchmarks.
- Enhanced precision and accuracy
- Compliance with global regulatory requirements
- Precision quantification of iodine levels
- Reduction in health risks due to imprecise fortification
The method's ability to provide precise results makes it indispensable for quality assurance programs aimed at maintaining consistent product quality across different batches and geographical locations. Additionally, the use of standardized procedures ensures comparability between laboratories worldwide, fostering trust among consumers.
For instance, in countries where iodine deficiency is a significant public health concern, this method plays a vital role in monitoring fortification levels to ensure they are effective in preventing deficiencies without causing harm from overconsumption. It also supports the development of evidence-based policies regarding iodine supplementation strategies.
Applied Standards
The analysis of iodine in fortified foods by ISO 21424 and ICP-MS adheres to several internationally recognized standards that ensure consistency, reliability, and accuracy. These include:
- ISO/IEC 17025:2017 - General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.
- ASTM E348-19a - Standard practice for sampling, preparation, and analysis of food products by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).
- EN ISO 21424:2017 - Determination of iodine in fortified foods.
The adherence to these standards guarantees that the testing process is conducted under controlled conditions, minimizing potential sources of error and ensuring robust data quality. Compliance with such rigorous specifications enhances credibility and reliability, making results more credible for regulatory authorities and consumers alike.
Scope and Methodology
The scope of ISO 21424 Iodine Analysis in Fortified Foods by ICP-MS encompasses the determination of iodine concentrations in various fortified food products, including table salt, dairy items like milk and yogurt, and grain-based foods such as bread. This method is particularly useful for ensuring that these products meet specified fortification levels set forth by relevant authorities.
The methodology involves several critical steps:
- Sample Preparation: Samples are collected from representative batches of fortified foods and undergo thorough cleaning to remove any contaminants. Depending on the type of food, this might involve mechanical or chemical processes.
- Digestion: The cleaned samples are digested using strong acids in a microwave oven or hot block, ensuring complete breakdown into its constituent elements.
- Sample Introduction: After digestion, the solutions are filtered and diluted if necessary before being introduced into the ICP-MS instrument.
- Analytical Measurement: The instrument measures the intensity of signals corresponding to iodine ions. Calibration curves are generated using known concentrations of iodine standards.
- Data Processing: Raw data from the ICP-MS is processed through software applications designed specifically for this purpose, allowing for accurate quantification and reporting of results.
- Reporting: Final reports include detailed descriptions of methods used along with calculated values of iodine content expressed in parts per million (ppm).
This comprehensive approach ensures that the analysis is both precise and reproducible, providing reliable data on iodine levels within fortified foods.
