WHO Mycotoxin Contamination Testing in Agricultural Products
The presence of mycotoxins in agricultural products such as grains, oilseeds, and animal feeds poses significant health risks to both humans and animals. These toxic secondary metabolites are produced by certain fungal species under specific environmental conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the need for stringent testing protocols to ensure food safety and prevent potential outbreaks of mycotoxin-related diseases.
The most common mycotoxins found in agricultural products include aflatoxins, fumonisins, trichothecenes, zearalenone, and ochratoxins. Each of these mycotoxins has distinct health implications ranging from acute toxicity to chronic effects such as cancer risk and immune system suppression.
Our laboratory offers comprehensive testing services for mycotoxin contamination in agricultural products. We utilize state-of-the-art analytical techniques, including liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), which allows us to detect trace levels of these toxins down to the parts per billion range. Our tests are conducted in strict adherence to international standards such as ISO 17025 and AOAC International methods.
The process begins with careful sampling of the agricultural product, followed by extraction and purification steps tailored to the specific mycotoxin being tested for. After sample preparation, the extract is injected into an LC-MS/MS instrument where it undergoes separation based on its chemical structure before being ionized and detected. This ensures accurate quantification and identification.
The results of our tests are reported according to international guidelines, providing a clear picture of the mycotoxin content in your sample. Compliance with regulations such as the EU Directive 2018/843 on feed hygiene is crucial for maintaining product safety standards across borders. Our team works closely with clients to ensure that their products meet these stringent requirements.
Understanding the geographical and environmental factors influencing mycotoxin occurrence helps our experts predict which crops are most susceptible to contamination. This knowledge enables us to tailor testing strategies effectively, ensuring optimal detection rates even in challenging environments.
- Sensitivity: Our LC-MS/MS technology can detect mycotoxins at extremely low concentrations, making it ideal for monitoring compliance with strict regulatory limits.
- Compliance: We provide detailed reports that align perfectly with international standards like ISO 17025 and EU Directive 2018/843 on feed hygiene.
- Precision: Our rigorous quality control measures ensure consistent results across multiple batches of samples.
Why It Matters
Mycotoxin contamination in agricultural products can lead to severe health issues, including liver damage, immune suppression, and even death. Regulatory bodies worldwide have implemented strict limits on allowable levels of mycotoxins in foodstuffs and feeds due to their potential adverse effects on human and animal health.
Exposure to high levels of certain mycotoxins can cause acute poisoning symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Chronic exposure might result in more severe conditions like cancer development or reproductive disorders. Ensuring that agricultural products are free from harmful concentrations of these toxins is essential for safeguarding public health.
From an economic perspective, contaminated crops could be rejected by importing countries leading to financial losses for farmers and processors alike. By implementing effective testing protocols early in the supply chain, stakeholders can avoid such costly consequences while also enhancing brand reputation through adherence to international quality assurance practices.
Why Choose This Test
Choosing our mycotoxin contamination testing service ensures you receive reliable data backed by advanced technology and meticulous methodology. Our team of experts is committed to providing accurate results that comply with global regulatory frameworks.
We offer several benefits over other testing options available on the market:
- Expertise: Leveraging years of experience in agricultural product analysis, we provide specialized insights into common issues faced by industry professionals.
- State-of-the-Art Equipment: Utilizing cutting-edge LC-MS/MS technology guarantees precision and reliability in our analyses.
- Comprehensive Reporting: Our reports go beyond mere numerical values, offering interpretative comments that help guide decision-making processes related to product safety.
In addition to these advantages, choosing our service means supporting a partner dedicated to upholding the highest standards of laboratory excellence. With transparent communication throughout every stage of testing, you can trust us to deliver solutions tailored specifically for your unique needs within the agricultural sector.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
- Accreditation: Our laboratory is accredited under ISO 17025, ensuring that all our operations meet internationally recognized quality standards.
- Certification Compliance: We adhere strictly to EU Directive 2018/843 on feed hygiene, guaranteeing compliance with relevant regulations governing mycotoxin content in agricultural products.
- Data Integrity: We employ robust data management systems to maintain the integrity and traceability of all test results.
