Glycoalkaloids Testing

Introduction

When it comes to food safety and nutrition, it's crucial to be aware of potential risks and harmful compounds that might be lurking in the products we consume. This awareness drives the demand for food testing labs near me, especially in places like Bangalore, where ensuring the safety of the food supply is of utmost importance. These labs play a vital role in safeguarding our well-being through services like microbiological testing and food allergy testing. Additionally, GMO testing in India is a topic of increasing relevance, as consumers and regulatory bodies aim to maintain transparency in the food supply chain. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of glycoalkaloids, explaining what they are, where they can be found, and why testing for glycoalkaloids is essential, contributing to the broader conversation surrounding food safety and quality.

What are Glycoalkaloids? 

Glycoalkaloids are natural chemical compounds found in various plant species, but they are most commonly associated with members of the Solanaceae family. These alkaloids act as a defence mechanism for the plants, protecting them from insects, microbes, and other potential threats. The two most well-known glycoalkaloids are solanine and chaconine, both of which are found in potatoes, tomatoes, and other nightshade plants.

Where Are Glycoalkaloids Found?

Glycoalkaloids are present in several food items that many of us consume regularly. Here are some common sources:

Potatoes: Solanine and chaconine are most abundant in the green parts of potatoes (e.g., potato skins and sprouts). While cooking can reduce glycoalkaloid levels, it's essential to avoid eating green potatoes or parts with visible sprouts.

Tomatoes: While tomatoes contain lower levels of glycoalkaloids compared to potatoes, they can still contribute to overall intake. Tomato leaves and stems typically contain higher concentrations of these compounds.

Eggplants: Another member of the nightshade family, eggplants, contain glycoalkaloids in their leaves and green parts. However, the levels in the edible fruit are generally much lower.

Peppers: Certain pepper varieties, like bell peppers, can contain trace amounts of glycoalkaloids, but they are not typically considered a significant source.

Importance of testing

Testing for melamine and cyanuric acid in milk powder is of paramount importance for several reasons, all of which revolve around safeguarding public health and ensuring the quality and safety of dairy products. Here are the key reasons why testing for these substances in milk powder is crucial:

Market overview

The global food safety testing market size was valued at $18.7 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach $37.5 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.2% from 2021 to 2031.

Standards and regulations

Last 7th April 2022, it was published the Recommendation (EU) 2022/561 on monitoring the presence of glycoalkaloids in potatoes and potato-derived products. The European Union (EU) has set a maximum level of glycoalkaloids in potatoes of 200 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). This level is based on the findings of a scientific risk assessment that concluded that it is safe for human consumption.

The FSSAI guidelines for potatoes recommend that farmers follow good agricultural practices (GAPs) to minimize the levels of glycoalkaloids in their crops. GAPs include practices such as using certified seed potatoes, planting potatoes at the correct time of year, and storing potatoes properly.

The FSSAI guidelines also recommend that food processors and retailers follow good manufacturing practices (GMPs) to reduce the levels of glycoalkaloids in their products. GMPs include practices such as peeling potatoes before processing them and cooking potatoes thoroughly

Consumers can reduce their exposure to glycoalkaloids by following the tips below

• Choose potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid potatoes that are green or have sprouts.
• Store potatoes in a cool, dark place.
• Peel potatoes before eating them.
• Cook potatoes thoroughly.

Avoid eating the green parts of potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplant.

Testing methods

Testing for Glycoalkaloids in foods is crucial for ensuring food safety and quality. Several testing methods are employed by food laboratories and regulatory agencies to detect and quantify Glycoalkaloids in various food products. Here are some common methods used for Glycoalkaloid testing:

Eurofins role in testing Glycoalkaloids

Eurofins is a global leader in food safety and quality testing services, and its role in testing Glycoalkaloids is instrumental in ensuring the safety of food products. Here's an overview of Eurofins' role in testing Glycoalkaloids:

High-Quality Testing Services: Eurofins offers a wide range of testing services, including the analysis of Glycoalkaloids in food products. These services are conducted with a high level of precision and accuracy, meeting international standards and regulatory requirements.

Expertise and Experience: Eurofins boasts a team of highly skilled and experienced scientists and technicians who specialize in food testing. They have the knowledge and expertise required to conduct Glycoalkaloid testing effectively.

State-of-the-Art Equipment: Eurofins utilizes advanced laboratory equipment and technology to carry out Glycoalkaloid testing. This ensures the reliability and sensitivity of the testing process.

Compliance with Regulations: Eurofins' testing services adhere to food safety regulations and standards set by various authorities worldwide. They help food producers and manufacturers meet these regulations and ensure their products are safe for consumption.

Customized Testing Solutions: Eurofins understands that different food products may require tailored testing approaches. They offer customized solutions to meet the specific needs of their clients, ensuring that Glycoalkaloid testing is accurate and relevant to the product in question.

Prompt Results: Eurofins is known for its efficiency in delivering test results quickly, enabling food producers to make informed decisions and take corrective actions promptly if needed.

Global Presence: Eurofins operates a vast network of laboratories across the world. This global presence allows them to serve clients in various regions, ensuring that Glycoalkaloid testing services are accessible to a wide range of food producers.

Comprehensive Analysis: Eurofins offers not only Glycoalkaloid testing but also a suite of other food testing services. This comprehensive approach allows food producers to address multiple quality and safety aspects of their products in a single testing service.

US FDA LAAF Recognition

Eurofins Analytical Services India, based in Bangalore, has received recognition from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Laboratory Accreditation for Analyses of Foods (LAAF) program. This achievement makes Eurofins the first laboratory in Asia to receive this recognition. The LAAF program ensures the safety and quality of food in the United States by accrediting laboratories that perform testing of foods regulated by the FDA.

References

1. Alting, A., Pouvreau, L., Giuseppin, M., & Van Nieuwenhuijzen, N. (2010). Potato proteins. Handbook of Food Proteins, 316-334. https://doi.org/10.1533/9780857093639.316
2. https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/food-safety-testing-market
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/glycoalkaloid

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