BS EN 16162:2012

Overview

BS EN 16162:2012 is a crucial standard within the agriculture sector, specifically focusing on the determination of decoquinate in animal feeding stuffs. Decoquinate is an important coccidiostat used in livestock to prevent coccidiosis, a parasitic disease that can significantly impact animal health and productivity. This standard outlines a method using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection, providing a reliable approach for compliance with regulatory requirements.

Key Requirements

The standard specifies the procedures and protocols necessary for accurately measuring the concentration of decoquinate in animal feed. Key requirements include:

• Sample Preparation: Detailed guidelines on how to prepare samples for analysis to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• HPLC Methodology: Specifications for the HPLC system, including column type, mobile phase composition, and flow rates.
• Calibration Procedures: Instructions for calibrating the HPLC system to ensure precise measurements.
• Quality Control: Recommendations for implementing quality control measures to validate the accuracy of results.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting BS EN 16162:2012 offers several practical benefits for compliance professionals and agricultural businesses:

• Enhanced Accuracy: The HPLC method provides high sensitivity and specificity, ensuring accurate detection of decoquinate levels.
• Regulatory Compliance: Following this standard helps businesses meet EU regulations regarding the use of additives in animal feed, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties.
• Improved Animal Health: By ensuring proper levels of decoquinate, producers can enhance animal welfare and productivity, leading to better economic outcomes.
• Standardisation: Implementing a standardised method across operations promotes consistency in testing and reporting.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS EN 16162:2012 not only aligns with legal requirements but also enhances the credibility of agricultural operations. By demonstrating adherence to recognised standards, businesses can:

• Build Trust: Stakeholders, including consumers and regulatory bodies, are more likely to trust products that are tested according to established standards.
• Facilitate Market Access: Compliance with this standard can ease entry into markets that require stringent testing protocols for animal feed.
• Mitigate Risks: Regular testing as per the standard helps identify potential issues before they escalate, protecting both animal health and business interests.

In conclusion, BS EN 16162:2012 serves as an essential tool for ensuring the safe and effective use of decoquinate in animal feeding stuffs. By implementing this standard, agricultural businesses can enhance their operational integrity, ensure compliance, and ultimately contribute to better animal health and productivity.