USDA Nutrient Database Calcium and Magnesium Testing in Foods
The USDA Nutrient Database plays a crucial role in providing accurate nutrient information that supports public health initiatives, labeling requirements, and scientific research. Ensuring the accuracy of calcium and magnesium content is paramount for compliance with dietary guidelines and consumer trust.
Our service specializes in testing calcium and magnesium levels in food products using rigorous methods aligned with international standards such as ISO 6973:2015 and AOAC International Method 996.06. These tests are essential for verifying nutrient claims, ensuring product safety, and meeting regulatory requirements.
The process begins with meticulous sample preparation to ensure consistency across batches. Our trained analysts carefully select representative samples that reflect the typical composition of each food item. Post-preparation, we use inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICPOES) for precise quantification. This approach provides high accuracy and reliability, which are critical for maintaining the integrity of the USDA database.
Once analysis is complete, results are compiled into comprehensive reports that include detailed information on sample identity, analytical methods used, detected elemental concentrations, and any deviations from expected values. These reports serve as valuable resources for quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement teams.
The importance of this testing cannot be overstated, especially given the growing demand for transparency in food labeling. By providing accurate calcium and magnesium content data, we help ensure that consumers make informed decisions about their dietary choices.
Applied Standards
- ISO 6973:2015 - This standard outlines the principles of chemical analysis for food and feeds, providing a framework that ensures consistency in analytical methods.
- AOAC International Method 996.06 - A widely recognized method for the determination of calcium and magnesium in various food matrices.
Our laboratory adheres strictly to these standards to ensure that our testing results are reliable, repeatable, and comparable to those reported by other reputable institutions.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
We maintain a robust quality management system certified according to ISO/IEC 17025:2017, which ensures that all our processes are continuously improved and meet the highest standards of accuracy and precision. Our analysts undergo rigorous training and certification in the methods we employ, ensuring they remain up-to-date with the latest techniques and best practices.
Our quality assurance program includes regular internal audits, participation in proficiency testing programs, and continuous monitoring of our equipment and methods to identify and address any potential issues early on.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Use Case | Description |
|---|---|
| Dietary Supplement Compliance | Ensuring that dietary supplements meet their stated calcium and magnesium content is critical for compliance with FDA regulations. |
| Cereal and Grain Product Labeling | Accurate mineral content data supports the accurate labeling of cereals, grains, and related products. |
| Dairy Product Certification | Verification of calcium levels in dairy products ensures compliance with nutritional claims and quality standards. |
- Dairy Products: Testing for calcium content is crucial to ensure product safety and meet consumer expectations regarding nutrient content.
- Cereals and Grains: Magnesium testing helps in confirming the nutritional profile of these products, which are often fortified with essential minerals.
- Dietary Supplements: Accurate mineral content is vital for compliance with regulatory requirements and maintaining product integrity.
These use cases highlight the significance of our service in ensuring accurate nutrient data that supports various sectors within the food industry.
