CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids Laboratory Testing Service Provided by Eurolab
The determination of ergot alkaloids is a critical test for ensuring the safety and quality of food products, particularly those derived from grains. The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has published EN 15891:2017, which outlines the requirements for the analysis of ergot alkaloids in food and feed samples. This standard is part of a broader set of regulations aimed at protecting human health and ensuring consumer safety.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The legal and regulatory framework surrounding CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing is governed by various international and national standards. Some of the key regulations include:
European Union (EU) legislation on food safety, such as Regulation (EC) No 882/2004International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, including ISO 17025:2017European Commission directives and regulations, such as Commission Directive 98/53/ECInternational and National Standards
The following international and national standards apply to CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing:
ISO 17025:2017 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratoriesEN 15891:2017 Determination of ergot alkaloids in food and feedEU legislation on food safety, such as Regulation (EC) No 882/2004Standard Development Organizations
Standard development organizations play a crucial role in ensuring that standards are relevant, effective, and up-to-date. Some of the key standard development organizations involved in CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing include:
European Committee for Standardization (CEN)International Organization for Standardization (ISO)Standard Evolution and Updates
Standards evolve over time to reflect changes in technology, regulations, and industry practices. The following are some key factors that influence standard updates:
Regulatory changesAdvances in technologyIndustry feedback and commentsSpecific Standard Numbers and Scope
The following specific standard numbers and their scope apply to CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing:
EN 15891:2017 Determination of ergot alkaloids in food and feed - Sample preparation - Chromatographic separationISO 17025:2017 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratoriesStandard Compliance Requirements
Compliance with CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing is mandatory for various industries, including:
Food manufacturersFeed suppliersRegulatory authoritiesAccreditation bodiesThe following is a detailed explanation of the standard-related information:
Scope: The standard specifies the requirements for the analysis of ergot alkaloids in food and feed samples.Normative references: The standard refers to other standards, including EN ISO 17025:2017 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.Terms and definitions: The standard defines key terms and concepts related to the determination of ergot alkaloids.The following is a detailed explanation of why CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing is required:
Business reasons: The test provides critical information on product safety and quality.Technical reasons: The test ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and standards.Consequences of not performing the test: Failure to perform the test can result in product recalls, fines, and damage to reputation.The following is a detailed explanation of why CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing is required:
Industries and sectors requiring the testing: Food manufacturers, feed suppliers, regulatory authorities, and accreditation bodies.Risk factors and safety implications: Failure to detect ergot alkaloids can lead to health risks for consumers.Quality assurance and quality control aspects: The test ensures compliance with regulations and standards.The following is a detailed explanation of how CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing is conducted:
Sampling procedures: Samples are collected from food or feed products.Sample preparation procedures: Samples are prepared for analysis using specialized equipment and techniques.Testing parameters and conditions: The test involves chromatographic separation and detection of ergot alkaloids.The following is a detailed explanation of how test results are documented and reported:
Report format and structure: Test reports follow specific formats and structures outlined in the standard.Data interpretation and evaluation: Results are interpreted and evaluated to determine compliance with regulations and standards.The following is a detailed explanation of how test results are documented and reported:
Certification and accreditation: Results are certified by accredited laboratories, such as Eurolab.Record-keeping requirements: Laboratories must maintain records of testing, including sample preparation, analysis, and reporting.The following is a detailed explanation of how CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing is conducted:
Equipment and instrument requirements: Laboratories must have access to specialized equipment and instruments for chromatographic separation and detection.Operator training and qualification: Operators must be trained and qualified in the use of equipment and techniques.The following is a detailed explanation of how CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing is conducted:
Calibration and validation procedures: Equipment and instruments are calibrated and validated regularly to ensure accuracy and reliability.Quality control measures: Laboratories must implement quality control measures, including internal audits and proficiency tests.Conclusion
In conclusion, CEN EN 15891 Determination of Ergot Alkaloids testing is a critical requirement for ensuring the safety and quality of food products. The test involves sampling, sample preparation, chromatographic separation, and detection of ergot alkaloids. Laboratories must comply with regulations and standards, including ISO 17025:2017 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.
