Testing for Nitrosamine Impurities
Nitrosamines are carcinogenic impurities formed when secondary or tertiary amines react with nitrites or nitrogenous agents. These compounds are classified as Class 1 impurities by the ICH M7(R1) Guideline and as probable human carcinogens (Group 2A) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Eurofins provides comprehensive nitrosamines testing to ensure food safety and regulatory compliance.
Why Test for Nitrosamines?
Nitrosamines can form during food processing, preservation, or even during digestion. They are frequently detected in processed meats, seafood, dairy, cooked foods, and alcoholic beverages, posing significant health risks.
Eurofins’ Testing Capabilities
Eurofins is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to detect nitrosamines across diverse food matrices. The testing capabilities include:
|
Nitrosamine |
Matrix |
LOQ (mg/kg) |
|
N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) |
Cereal & cereal products, tea, coffee, cocoa, oil seeds, nuts, milk & milk products, fruits, vegetables |
0.01 |
|
N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) |
0.01 |
|
|
N-Nitrosodibutylamine (NDBA) |
0.01 |
|
|
N-Nitrosopiperidine (NPIP) |
0.01 |
|
|
N-Nitrosopyrrolidine (NPYR) |
0.01 |
|
|
N-Nitrosomorpholine (NMOR) |
0.01 |
|
|
N-Nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA) |
0.01 |
|
|
N-Nitrosomethylethylamine (NMEA) |
0.01 |
Key Features of Eurofins’ Nitrosamines Testing
- Advanced Equipment: Utilizes LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS systems for precise detection.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Testing across various food categories, including processed foods, dairy, and beverages.
- Global Expertise: Supported by a network of 900+ laboratories worldwide.
- Fast Turnaround Times (TAT): Ensures timely reporting and compliance.
- Regulatory Compliance: Adheres to international standards and guidelines for nitrosamines detection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are nitrosamines dangerous?
Nitrosamines are classified as carcinogenic impurities and pose health risks when consumed over time. - What foods are most susceptible to nitrosamines?
Processed meats, seafood, dairy, cooked foods, and certain beverages are common sources. - How are nitrosamines tested at Eurofins?
Eurofins uses advanced technologies like LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS to detect trace amounts of nitrosamines. - What is the detection limit for nitrosamines?
Eurofins can detect nitrosamines as low as 0.01 mg/kg in various food matrices. - Is nitrosamine testing mandatory?
While specific regions enforce limits, testing is essential for safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
Choose Eurofins for reliable and accurate nitrosamines testing. Contact us today!
