ISO 36012 Fungicide Analysis in Dairy Products
The analysis of fungicides in dairy products, as outlined by ISO 36012, is a critical component in ensuring food safety and quality. This service addresses the presence of fungicides in milk and dairy products to prevent contamination that could compromise human health. Fungicides are widely used in agriculture to control fungal diseases, but their residues can accumulate in crops and subsequently in dairy products if not properly managed.
The testing process involves several stages starting with the collection of samples from various production stages. Samples include raw milk, processed dairy products like cheese and yogurt, as well as final product packaging materials. Each sample is then prepared according to ISO 36012 guidelines which specify methods for extraction, clean-up, and analysis.
Once prepared, the samples undergo advanced analytical techniques such as Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). These instruments provide high sensitivity and selectivity necessary to detect trace levels of fungicides even in complex matrices. The detection limits for common fungicides range from ppb (parts per billion) to ppt (parts per trillion), ensuring that no harmful residues remain.
The results are reported in accordance with ISO 36012 specifications, detailing the concentration levels of detected fungicides along with other relevant parameters like moisture content or fat percentage. Compliance reports help stakeholders understand whether their products meet regulatory standards set by international bodies such as EU Directive 2002/657/EC.
This service is essential for quality managers and compliance officers responsible for maintaining safe food supply chains. By identifying potential issues early on, they can take corrective actions promptly to avoid recalls or health scares. For R&D engineers involved in developing new formulations or processes related to fungicides, this analysis provides valuable insights into the efficacy of their innovations.
Additionally, procurement teams benefit from knowing which suppliers adhere strictly to good agricultural practices (GAP) and integrated pest management plans that minimize unnecessary use of chemicals. This ensures consistency across supply chains while promoting best industry practices.
| Fungicide | Targeted Matrix |
|---|---|
| Azoxystrobin | Milk |
| Boscalid | Cheese |
| Mepanipyrim | Yogurt |
Why It Matters
The presence of fungicides in dairy products poses significant risks to consumer health. Fungicides can interfere with hormonal systems, disrupt the immune system, and cause adverse effects on reproductive organs. Children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable.
- Ensures compliance with international food safety regulations
- Aids in maintaining brand reputation through consistent quality control measures
- Helps suppliers comply with stringent import/export requirements
- Promotes sustainable agriculture practices by encouraging responsible pesticide usage
By adhering to ISO 36012, laboratories demonstrate their commitment to public health and safety. This not only protects consumers but also fosters trust among stakeholders including regulators, customers, and investors.
Applied Standards
The analysis of fungicides in dairy products strictly adheres to the ISO 36012 standard which provides comprehensive guidelines for sample preparation, extraction procedures, instrumental techniques, and data interpretation. This ensures uniformity and reliability across different testing laboratories worldwide.
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ISO 36012:2018 | Method for the Determination of Fungicides in Milk and Dairy Products |
| ASTM E2579-14 | Standard Practice for Preparation of Samples of Milk and Dairy Products |
| EN 13806:2002 | Analysis of Residues of Plant Protection Products in Foodstuffs - Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) |
The combination of these standards ensures accurate and reproducible results, thereby enhancing the credibility of the testing process.
Environmental and Sustainability Contributions
- Reduces unnecessary chemical inputs in agriculture leading to reduced environmental impact
- Promotes sustainable farming practices by encouraging responsible pesticide usage
- Aids in preserving natural ecosystems by minimizing contamination of water bodies from agricultural runoff containing fungicides
- Supports biodiversity conservation efforts through better management of crop protection activities.
The analysis also contributes to broader sustainability goals by fostering transparency and accountability within the supply chain. Consumers can make informed choices about their food purchases, supporting more ethical consumption patterns.
