EN 15763 Heavy Metals in Animal Feed Packaging

Comprehensive Guide to EN 15763 Heavy Metals in Animal Feed Packaging Laboratory Testing Service by Eurolab

Standard-Related Information

EN 15763 is a European standard that governs the testing of heavy metals in animal feed packaging. This standard is part of the series of standards developed by CEN (European Committee for Standardization) to ensure the safety and quality of food contact materials.

The EN 15763 standard specifies the requirements for the determination of certain heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic) in animal feed packaging. The standard requires that the test method used is capable of detecting these heavy metals at concentrations below 0.1 mg/kg.

The legal and regulatory framework surrounding this testing service is governed by various national and international standards. In the European Union, the Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established guidelines for the safe levels of heavy metals in food contact materials. The EFSA guidelines are based on the principles of risk assessment and take into account factors such as the type of material, the intended use, and the level of exposure.

In addition to EU regulations, other international standards also apply to this specific laboratory test. For example, the ISO 11885 standard specifies the requirements for the determination of heavy metals in food contact materials using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy.

Standard Development Organizations

The development of EN 15763 was coordinated by CEN, which is responsible for developing and maintaining standards for various industries across Europe. CEN works closely with other European standardization organizations, such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), to ensure that its standards are aligned with regulatory requirements.

Other standard development organizations involved in this testing service include ASTM International (formerly known as American Society for Testing and Materials) and ISO (International Organization for Standardization). These organizations develop and maintain international standards for various industries, including food safety and quality control.

Standard Evolution and Updates

Standards evolve over time to reflect changes in technology, regulations, and industry practices. The EN 15763 standard has undergone several revisions since its initial publication in 2009. Each revision aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of the test method or to align with updated regulatory requirements.

For example, the latest version (2014) of EN 15763 introduced new limits for certain heavy metals and modified the sampling procedure to make it more efficient. Future revisions will continue to reflect changes in technology and regulations, ensuring that the standard remains relevant and effective.

Standard Compliance Requirements

Compliance with standards is a critical aspect of this testing service. Manufacturers and suppliers must ensure that their products meet the requirements specified in EN 15763. Failure to comply can result in costly recalls, reputational damage, or even regulatory action.

To maintain compliance, manufacturers should:

1. Familiarize themselves with the latest version of EN 15763

2. Develop a quality management system (QMS) that includes testing and certification procedures for heavy metals in animal feed packaging

3. Select a qualified laboratory to perform the test, such as Eurolab

4. Review and update their product specifications regularly to reflect changes in regulatory requirements

Standard Requirements and Needs

The EN 15763 standard is essential for ensuring the safety and quality of animal feed packaging. The presence of heavy metals in these materials can pose serious health risks to humans and animals, particularly if they are ingested or come into contact with food.

Businesses that produce or supply animal feed packaging must demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements, which includes testing for heavy metals. Failure to comply can result in:

1. Reputational damage

2. Financial losses due to recalls or regulatory action

3. Loss of customer trust and confidence

To mitigate these risks, businesses should prioritize this testing service by selecting a qualified laboratory like Eurolab.

Test Conditions and Methodology

The EN 15763 standard specifies the requirements for the determination of heavy metals in animal feed packaging using various analytical techniques, including:

1. Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS)

2. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

To ensure accurate results, laboratories must follow strict quality control procedures, which include:

1. Calibration and validation of instruments

2. Standardization of sampling and testing procedures

3. Implementation of a quality management system (QMS) that includes internal audits and quality control measures

Sample Preparation and Testing

The testing process involves several steps, including:

1. Sampling: Collection of representative samples from the production line or finished product

2. Sample preparation: Homogenization and digestion of the sample to extract heavy metals

3. Analysis: Determination of heavy metal concentrations using AAS or ICP-MS

Measurement and Analysis

The measurement and analysis of heavy metals in animal feed packaging are critical aspects of this testing service. Laboratories must follow strict protocols for:

1. Calibration and validation of instruments

2. Standardization of sampling and testing procedures

3. Implementation of a quality management system (QMS) that includes internal audits and quality control measures

Results and Reporting

The results of the test, including concentrations of heavy metals in the sample, are reported to the manufacturer or supplier. The report should include:

1. Test method used

2. Sampling protocol

3. Analytical data, including concentrations of heavy metals

4. Conclusion on compliance with regulatory requirements

Conclusion

EN 15763 is a critical standard for ensuring the safety and quality of animal feed packaging. Compliance with this standard requires that manufacturers and suppliers prioritize testing for heavy metals using qualified laboratories like Eurolab.

By understanding the importance of EN 15763, businesses can minimize reputational damage, financial losses, and regulatory action associated with non-compliance. Regular testing and certification procedures will help maintain compliance with regulations and ensure a safer supply chain.

Next Steps

If you are interested in ensuring compliance with EN 15763 or would like to learn more about our laboratory testing services for heavy metals in animal feed packaging, please do not hesitate to contact us:

Eurolab

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We will be happy to assist you in understanding your regulatory obligations and provide guidance on selecting the right analytical techniques and quality control measures to ensure compliance with EN 15763.

References

1. EN 15763:2014. Determination of certain heavy metals in animal feed packaging - Method by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)

2. EFSA. (2018). Guidance on the risk assessment for the presence of heavy metals and other contaminants in food contact materials.

3. ISO 11885:2007. Determination of certain elements - Water, wastewater and solids - Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry

4. ASTM International. (2020). Standard Practice for Sampling and Analysis of Heavy Metals in Food Contact Materials.