BS EN ISO 17189:2003

## BS EN ISO 17189:2003: The Essential Food Technology StandardBS EN ISO 17189:2003, titled 'Food technology - Determination of ochratoxin A in cereal grains and cereal products - High performance liquid chromatographic method with immunoaffinity column cleanup', is a critical standard for the food industry. This standard provides detailed guidelines and technical specifications for the accurate detection and quantification of ochratoxin A, a mycotoxin that can pose significant health risks if present in food products.### Key Features and Benefits:- **Precise Ochratoxin A Measurement**: The standard outlines a high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method with immunoaffinity column cleanup, ensuring reliable and consistent results for ochratoxin A levels in cereal grains and products.- **Enhanced Food Safety**: Adherence to this standard helps food manufacturers, processors, and distributors identify and mitigate the presence of ochratoxin A, a potent carcinogen, safeguarding consumer health and meeting regulatory requirements.- **Quality Assurance**: The standardized testing procedures outlined in BS EN ISO 17189:2003 enable food businesses to implement robust quality control measures, ensuring the integrity and safety of their products.- **Regulatory Compliance**: This standard is harmonized with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), making it a crucial tool for demonstrating compliance with relevant food safety regulations.- **Worldwide Acceptance**: As an ISO-adopted standard, BS EN ISO 17189:2003 is recognized globally, facilitating international trade and cooperation within the food industry.### Technical Specifications:- **Scope**: The standard applies to the determination of ochratoxin A in cereal grains and cereal-based products, including flour, bread, and breakfast cereals.- **Principle**: The method involves extraction of ochratoxin A from the sample, purification using an immunoaffinity column, and quantification by HPLC with fluorescence detection.- **Sample Preparation**: The standard provides detailed instructions for sample homogenization, extraction, and cleanup, ensuring consistent and reliable results.- **Instrumentation**: The method specifies the use of HPLC equipment with a fluorescence detector, as well as the required column and mobile phase parameters.- **Calibration and Quantification**: The standard outlines the procedures for calibrating the HPLC system and calculating the ochratoxin A concentration in the sample.- **Quality Control**: The standard includes guidelines for method validation, including the determination of recovery, precision, and limit of detection, to ensure the reliability of the test results.Implementing BS EN ISO 17189:2003 is crucial for food businesses seeking to demonstrate their commitment to food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. By adhering to this standard, organizations can enhance consumer trust, optimize their operations, and navigate the complex landscape of international food trade with confidence.