Contaminant Identification
When an unknown material is suspected in a food or beverage product, manufacturers need to know the identity and often the quantity of the contaminant. Contaminant identification and hazard analysis projects involve the determination of unknown components at low concentrations (e.g. ppm levels).
Examples of Food Contamination Testing Projects:
- Smoke contamination after a fire in a meat processing plant
- Packaging components migrating into food
- Ingredient cross-contamination
- Quantification of Benzene in beverages
A strategic technical approach is required to identify the unknown contaminant by using a comparison study between a control and suspect sample. The technical approach is dependent on the sample matrix and the suspected level of contamination. Often, we start with a general screen of the control and suspect sample using GC/MS and LC/MS. Depending on the results, we may need to isolate the contaminant from a large amount of sample to allow analysis using FT-IR and NMR spectroscopy. Once identification is complete, we can further quantify the contaminant in the sample matrix.
Typical contamination testing and identification projects have involved off-odor/flavor investigations, off-color problems, or foreign particles in a product. Some sources of contaminants have been from the environment, improper storage of the product, or poor quality raw materials. We work closely with our clients to trace the source of contamination and develop a realistic corrective action program.
Toxicity Risk Assessment
When crisis situations involve alleged harmful or toxic chemical contaminants, we partner with established scientists in the field of toxicology to perform hazard analysis. This understanding of chemical toxicity, along with our analytical investigations, result in a full toxicity risk assessment report.
Emergency Services
Contamination is a serious issue when food and beverages are concerned. Chemir’s team is available 24/7 for contamination testing emergencies. If problems occur outside of business hours, please call our toll free number, 800-659-7659, to reach our emergency staff. You will be connected to a Director of Technical Services, who will design a plan of action, coordinate an investigative team and begin analytical testing.