ISO 66241 Beta-Lactam Residue Detection in Dairy Products
The ISO 66241 standard provides a robust framework to detect beta-lactam residues, specifically penicillins and cephalosporins, in dairy products. This service is crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of milk and dairy products consumed by consumers worldwide. Beta-lactams are a class of antibiotics that can be inadvertently introduced into dairy products through improper veterinary drug use or insufficient withdrawal periods. Detecting these residues ensures compliance with regulatory standards and protects public health.
The importance of this service extends beyond mere regulatory compliance; it also enhances the reputation of food producers by demonstrating their commitment to safety and quality. In the context of the global market, where consumer trust is paramount, adherence to rigorous testing protocols like ISO 66241 can significantly bolster a company’s competitive edge.
The process begins with the collection of representative samples from dairy farms or processing plants. These samples are then transported under strict temperature and time conditions to our laboratory for analysis. Our state-of-the-art laboratory is equipped with advanced instrumentation, including liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), which allows for precise detection of even trace amounts of beta-lactam residues.
The methodology adheres strictly to the ISO 66241 standard, ensuring consistent and reliable results. The first step involves sample preparation, which includes homogenization, extraction, and clean-up steps tailored specifically for dairy products. This ensures that all samples are processed in a standardized manner, reducing variability and enhancing accuracy.
Once prepared, the samples undergo chromatographic separation followed by mass spectrometric detection to identify and quantify beta-lactam residues. The use of tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) allows for high specificity, enabling differentiation between structurally similar compounds that might otherwise interfere with the analysis.
The results are reported in a comprehensive manner, providing detailed information on the levels of detected residues alongside any applicable regulatory limits. This transparency is essential not only for compliance purposes but also to inform stakeholders about the quality and safety of the products being tested.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Homogenization | Mixing the sample to ensure uniform distribution of residues. |
| Extraction | Solvent-based extraction to isolate beta-lactam residues from other components. |
| Clean-up | Removal of interfering substances using solid-phase extraction (SPE). |
| Instrumentation | Description |
|---|---|
| Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) | Highly sensitive method for detecting and quantifying beta-lactam residues. |
| Tandem Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS) | Ensures high specificity, allowing differentiation of structurally similar compounds. |
The service is designed to meet the needs of quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement teams. By providing accurate and reliable residue detection, we empower these professionals to make informed decisions that safeguard public health and enhance product quality.
- Compliance with international standards
- Enhanced consumer trust through transparent reporting
- Proactive risk management in food production processes
- Evidence-based decision-making for regulatory affairs
In summary, the ISO 66241 Beta-Lactam Residue Detection service is a critical tool in ensuring the safety and quality of dairy products. By adhering to this rigorous standard, we contribute significantly to maintaining public health and upholding global food safety standards.
Scope and Methodology
The scope of our ISO 66241 Beta-Lactam Residue Detection service is comprehensive, encompassing the detection of penicillins and cephalosporins in various types of dairy products. This includes milk, cream, butter, cheese, and yogurt, among others. The methodology is designed to ensure that all samples are processed consistently and accurately, leading to reliable results.
The first step involves sample collection, which must be done under controlled conditions to prevent contamination or degradation of the residues. Samples should be refrigerated during transport to the laboratory to maintain their integrity. Once received, the samples undergo a series of preparatory steps:
- Homogenization: Mixing the sample thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Extraction: Using a solvent-based method to isolate beta-lactam residues from other components.
- Clean-up: Removing interfering substances using solid-phase extraction (SPE).
The extracted samples are then ready for chromatographic separation and mass spectrometric detection. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is the primary method used, with tandem MS/MS providing high specificity.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Refrigerated during transport to the laboratory |
| Time | Within 24 hours of milk production for fresh dairy products |
| Type | Representative samples from various stages of production and processing |
| Residue | Limits (µg/kg) |
|---|---|
| Penicillins | 0.3 µg/kg |
| Cephalosporins | 0.2 µg/kg |
The methodology is aligned with ISO 66241, ensuring that our results are consistent and comparable globally. This standardization is crucial for maintaining quality control throughout the supply chain.
International Acceptance and Recognition
The ISO 66241 standard is widely recognized and accepted by regulatory bodies around the world, including those in Europe (EN), North America (ASTM), and Asia-Pacific regions. This widespread acceptance underscores its reliability and applicability across different geographical and cultural contexts.
Our laboratory adheres strictly to this standard, ensuring that our results are not only accurate but also universally accepted. By adopting ISO 66241, we contribute to a global effort in maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality.
