USDA FSIS Oxidative Stability Testing in Oils
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) requires that fats, oils, shortenings, and similar products used in the production of meat or poultry products undergo oxidative stability testing to ensure they meet rigorous standards for quality and safety.
Oxidative stability refers to how resistant a fat or oil is to rancidity. This resistance is crucial because oxidized fats can lead to off-flavors, reduced shelf life, and potential health risks. The USDA FSIS specifies that the FSIS Oxidative Stability Test must be performed according to specific protocols outlined in ASTM E928. This test evaluates how quickly a fat or oil oxidizes under controlled conditions, ensuring that the product remains stable and safe for consumption.
The process involves subjecting the sample to high temperatures in an oxygen-rich environment. The reaction is monitored by measuring changes in peroxide value (PV) over time. PV is a measure of the amount of free radicals present in the fat or oil, which indicates its oxidative state. A higher PV suggests more rapid oxidation and thus poorer stability.
For quality managers and compliance officers, understanding these tests is essential to ensuring that products meet regulatory requirements. R&D engineers can use this data to improve formulations, while procurement teams need accurate testing results to verify supplier reliability.
The USDA FSIS Oxidative Stability Test plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of meat and poultry products by preventing the introduction of oxidized fats into the food chain. This test ensures that consumers receive safe and high-quality products. By adhering to these standards, laboratories can provide accurate and reliable results essential for compliance.
| Test Method | Description |
|---|---|
| ASTM E928 | Absorbance of the sample at 234 nm is measured over time to determine PV changes. |
| Sample Preparation | Typical sample size ranges from 10 to 50 grams depending on the product type. |
Applied Standards
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ASTM E928 | Establishes the protocol for measuring peroxide value during oxidative stability testing. |
| ISO 6883 | Provides guidelines on determining rancidity in fats and oils by measuring the formation of volatile compounds. |
Eurolab Advantages
At Eurolab, we pride ourselves on delivering unparalleled accuracy and precision in our testing services. Our state-of-the-art equipment ensures that every sample is analyzed under the most stringent conditions, guaranteeing reliable results.
- Advanced Instrumentation: Equipped with high-resolution spectrophotometers to monitor peroxide values accurately.
- Experienced Staff: Our team consists of highly trained professionals who understand the nuances of oxidative stability testing.
- Comprehensive Reporting: Detailed reports are provided, including raw data and interpretations, ensuring that clients have all the information needed for informed decisions.
- Rapid Turnaround: We ensure quick turnaround times without compromising on accuracy or quality.
Why Choose This Test
- Ensures compliance with USDA FSIS regulations.
- Prevents the introduction of oxidized fats into the food chain, thus ensuring product quality and safety.
- Promotes consumer trust by adhering to rigorous standards set by regulatory bodies.
- Supports continuous improvement in product formulations through accurate testing data.
