Allergen Testing in the Agricultural Industry
Posted on: 19 October 2021
This article is going to explore the importance of allergen testing in the agricultural industry. Read on to find out more!
Why do agribusinesses test for allergens?
Allergen testing is used to ensure the ingredient being used is safe for food manufacturing processes to take place. Any mistakes could have disastrous consequences. For example, chocolate could be formed into a bar that contains peanut traces, which would present serious risks for consumers who are allergic to peanuts.
The need for accurate allergen information means that companies must test for allergens before producing foodstuffs and packaging them. They must also test against allergens during the harvesting process. Strict quality checks are carried out throughout the food production process, which includes assuring the quality of raw materials and equipment used. There should be no contact between allergenic ingredients and foods that don't contain them to ensure the allergy status of the final food is correct.
How do agribusinesses test for allergens?
Using allergen testing, companies can ascertain what allergens may be present in a batch of food products and whether the allergen level is acceptable. These tests include the following:
Gluten analysis
Gluten is a protein in wheat, rye, barley and some forms of spelt. People with celiac disease are unable to process gluten properly in the body. This can cause vomiting or diarrhoea after eating wheat or other products containing wheat flour. Companies must analyze the amount of gluten found in their food to understand how much must be removed before the product is released for the market.
Food chemistry analysis
The analysis involves identifying and quantifying all ingredients and ingredients by-products in a given food product. The final analysis should show the levels of allergens present and whether they are within tolerance limits. If there are any problems, companies can start their allergen testing process again.
Through testing, companies can determine how much allergen is found in the average serving size of their product. This information is vital for consumers who may want to avoid allergens or know how much they may be consuming if they accidentally ingest an allergenic ingredient.
Food safety management systems are essential in the agribusiness sector to eliminate the risk of contamination by allergens. Specific procedures need to be put in place so allergen testing can take place correctly and efficiently. A system should also be available so people working with food can report any allergies they may have. For more info, contact a company that offers food allergen testings today.
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