Normec Foodcontrol in Belgium is one of the first Benelux laboratories accredited for the enzymatic determination of the three main food acids. These acids are active against Listeria monocytogenes. Normec Foodcontrol is part of the Dutch company Normec Foodcare.
The enzymatic methods were selected because they provide highly reliable results. The kits suppliers claim these methods remain the standard. Several international organizations also recognize these techniques.
"Three organic acids successfully assessed"
On 17 February 2021, BELAC (the Belgian Laboratory Accreditation Commission) audited Normec Foodcontrol. These three organic acids were assessed during this audit.
- Acetic acid
- Lactic acid
- Citric acid
The audit for the 'food excluding beverages' matric was successful. From now on, reports will mention that these analyses fall within BELAC's accreditation scope. It's been given the number BELAC 080-TEST.
Enzymatic methods' advantages
The enzymatic methods' most important advantages are:
- The extraction depends on the acid. Citric acid is extracted very differently than acetic or lactic acid. Each acid is, therefore, removed in the most suitable way.
- The enzyme is specific to the acid being analyzed. So, there are no component separation issues.
- There are also no problems with interferents. These include salt, vitamins, amino acids, and sugars. Here, too, it's because acid-specific enzymes are used.
Accreditation protocol
You need a validation file for accreditation. Ring tests should also be successfully completed. Ring test organizations arrange these tests. These organizations are specifically recognized and accredited for this purpose.
In the first phase, several laboratories receive the same sample. It's examined for specific parameters. A homogeneity test is performed on this sample beforehand. The ring test coordinator is, therefore, sure the parameter in question is homogeneously well distributed in the sample. And that it's suitable for the comparative study.
These ring tests showed that Normec Foodcontrol repeatedly had highly accurate results. Models that, for example, assess Listeria monocytogenes' growth often employ organic acids. It's vital to work with reliable, repeatable, applicable values. That's so you can correctly evaluate the dangers the expansion might pose. The analyses for accreditation confirm that Normec Foodcontrol has met those conditions.
For more information:
Normec Foodcare
3 Balkweg
5232 BT, 's-Hertogenbosch, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 733 030 288
Website: www.normecfoodcare.com