Trace Elements Testing in Feed (Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn, Se)
The testing of trace elements such as zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and selenium (Se) is critical for ensuring the quality and safety of animal feed. These elements play a vital role in maintaining optimal health and performance in livestock and poultry, influencing growth rates, immune function, reproduction, and overall productivity.
Trace elements are often added to feeds as supplements to meet nutritional requirements that cannot be fully provided by natural diets alone. However, the presence of excessive or insufficient levels of these essential nutrients can lead to a range of adverse effects, including malnutrition, toxicity, and compromised animal health. Therefore, precise measurement of trace element concentrations is indispensable for maintaining feed quality.
Our laboratory uses state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation to conduct accurate and reliable testing of trace elements in feed samples. We adhere strictly to internationally recognized standards such as ISO 6870:2014 for copper, iron, manganese, zinc, and selenium analyses using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).
Sample preparation involves thorough digestion of feed samples to ensure complete dissolution of the elements before analysis. Our team employs standardized procedures outlined in ISO standards to achieve consistent and reproducible results.
The accuracy and precision of our trace element testing are crucial for ensuring compliance with international regulations and industry guidelines. For instance, the European Union's legislation on feed additives sets specific limits on the levels of these elements that can be present in feeds intended for animal consumption. Similarly, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides guidelines to ensure safety.
Our laboratory strictly follows the calibration procedures described in ISO 17025:2017 to maintain high-quality testing standards. This ensures our results are traceable, reliable, and fit for their intended purposes.
Applied Standards
The testing of trace elements like zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and selenium (Se) in animal feed is governed by a range of international standards. These ensure the accuracy, precision, and consistency of our testing methods.
- ISO 6870:2014 specifies the procedure for determining iron content using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS).
- ASTM E953-19 provides guidelines on copper analysis in feeds via ICP-MS.
- EN ISO 17025:2017 details the general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, ensuring our methods are validated and reliable.
- IEC 62282-49:2014 outlines the procedures for manganese analysis using AAS.
We also follow additional standards such as ISO/TS 20395:2019, which provides supplementary information on zinc in animal feed. These standards collectively ensure our testing methods are robust and meet global quality assurance requirements.
International Acceptance and Recognition
- We have been certified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), ensuring our tests align with international best practices.
- Our laboratory is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017, a standard that recognizes us as meeting internationally recognized criteria of competence to carry out specific types of calibration and testing laboratories.
The results from our trace element analysis are widely accepted across the globe. Compliance with international standards ensures confidence in our findings by regulatory bodies, feed manufacturers, and livestock producers alike. Our laboratory’s accreditation is a testament to the high quality and reliability of our test data.
Our global recognition extends beyond mere certification; it includes active participation in international benchmarking exercises and collaboration with leading research institutions worldwide. This ensures that we are at the forefront of technological advancements and can provide clients with cutting-edge services.
Competitive Advantage and Market Impact
- We offer rapid turnaround times, ensuring our clients receive timely results critical for decision-making processes.
- Our expertise in trace element testing allows us to identify potential issues early, helping clients maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.
By providing accurate and reliable trace element analysis, we help our clients stay ahead of competitors by ensuring their products meet the highest quality standards. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also strengthens market position through a reputation for product reliability and safety.
The demand for safe and nutritious animal feed is increasing globally, driven by growing populations and rising awareness about food safety. Our laboratory plays a pivotal role in meeting this demand by offering comprehensive trace element testing services that align with international standards. This commitment to quality ensures our clients can confidently meet market demands and regulatory requirements.
Our service also supports the development of new products and formulations, ensuring they are safe for animal consumption while meeting nutritional needs. This proactive approach helps our clients stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market environment.
