BS 6986-4:1990, ISO 7514:1990

Overview

BS 6986-4:1990, which aligns with ISO 7514:1990, provides a definitive method for the determination of total ash in instant tea. This standard is crucial for food technology professionals involved in the analysis of tea products, ensuring that quality control measures are met and that products comply with regulatory requirements.

Key Requirements

The standard outlines a systematic approach to measuring total ash content, which is an important indicator of the mineral content in food products. The key requirements include:

• Sample Preparation: Proper sampling techniques must be employed to ensure representative samples of instant tea are used for analysis.
• Ashing Process: The method specifies the use of a muffle furnace to incinerate the sample at a controlled temperature, ensuring complete combustion of organic matter.
• Weighing and Calculation: Detailed instructions for weighing the ash residue and calculating the total ash content as a percentage of the original sample are provided.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting BS 6986-4:1990 offers several practical benefits for manufacturers and quality control laboratories:

• Consistency: By following a standardised method, companies can achieve consistent results across different batches of instant tea.
• Quality Assurance: Regular testing for total ash content helps in maintaining product quality and meeting consumer expectations.
• Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with this standard aids in meeting food safety regulations, thus reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS 6986-4:1990 not only enhances product quality but also strengthens market position. The standard provides a framework that can be integrated into existing quality management systems, ensuring that:

• Traceability: The method allows for traceability of results, which is essential for audits and inspections.
• Consumer Confidence: Adherence to recognised standards fosters trust among consumers, as they can be assured of the quality and safety of the products they purchase.
• Market Access: Many retailers and distributors require compliance with recognised standards as a prerequisite for product listing, thus facilitating market access.

In conclusion, BS 6986-4:1990 is an essential standard for the analysis of instant tea, providing a reliable method for determining total ash content. Its implementation not only ensures compliance with food safety regulations but also enhances product quality and consumer trust.