BS EN 16007:2011

Overview

BS EN 16007:2011 is a critical standard in the agriculture sector, specifically focusing on the determination of ochratoxin A in animal feed. Ochratoxin A is a mycotoxin produced by certain fungi, which can contaminate animal feed and pose significant health risks to livestock and, subsequently, to humans through the food chain. This standard outlines a method for detecting and quantifying ochratoxin A using immunoaffinity column clean-up followed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection.

Key Requirements

The standard specifies the following key requirements for laboratories and facilities involved in the analysis of animal feeding stuffs:

• Sample Preparation: Proper collection and storage of feed samples to prevent contamination and degradation.
• Immunoaffinity Column Clean-Up: Utilisation of immunoaffinity columns to selectively isolate ochratoxin A from complex matrices.
• High-Performance Liquid Chromatography: Implementation of HPLC techniques with fluorescence detection for accurate quantification.
• Validation Procedures: Establishing validation protocols to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the analytical method.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting BS EN 16007:2011 offers several practical benefits for compliance professionals and agricultural stakeholders:

• Enhanced Safety: Regular testing for ochratoxin A helps ensure that animal feed is safe, reducing health risks for livestock and consumers.
• Regulatory Compliance: Following this standard aids in meeting legal requirements set by food safety authorities, thereby avoiding potential penalties.
• Improved Quality Control: Establishing a consistent testing protocol enhances the overall quality control processes within feed production.
• Market Confidence: Compliance with recognised standards can improve marketability and consumer trust in animal products.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS EN 16007:2011 is not merely a regulatory obligation; it represents a commitment to quality and safety in the agricultural sector. By adhering to this standard, organisations can:

• Minimise Risks: Identifying and controlling ochratoxin A levels reduces the risk of contamination in the food supply chain.
• Facilitate Trade: Meeting international standards can ease trade barriers, allowing for smoother export and import of animal feed products.
• Support Sustainable Practices: Ensuring safe animal feed contributes to sustainable agricultural practices and animal welfare.

In conclusion, BS EN 16007:2011 provides a robust framework for the detection of ochratoxin A in animal feed. Its implementation not only ensures compliance with safety regulations but also promotes the overall health of livestock and the integrity of the food supply chain.