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Species identification of animal products
The correct identification of the species of origin of animal products used in food, pharmaceuticals and animal feed is essential to ensure that these products meet legislative and labelling requirements.
Fera has recently developed and validated a method to determine the species of origin of gelatine and meat and bone meal. The method is based on highly sensitive mass spectrometry analysis of proteins in the products. We then use a database of mass spectrometry data, which we have developed in order to specify the species of origin.
Gelatine testing
Widely used in food and pharmaceuticals, gelatine is manufactured from animal bone and skin, predominantly from pig and cow, but also from poultry and fish tissue. The inclusion of certain gelatines in products can raise ethical and religious concerns for consumers who wish to avoid these species.
Fera can determine the species origin of gelatine in a range of food and pharmaceutical products. Further, the degree of processing involved during the manufacture of the gelatine may also be determined.
Meat and bone meal testing
Since the BSE crisis in 1987, strict legislation has controlled the types of feed used for cattle and other livestock in Europe. One such control was the banning of meat and bone meal (MBM) in animal feed. There is now scope to relax the ban on MBM, without endangering human or animal health, provided that the scientific capability is in place to control and test the species of animal contained in MBM.
Fera can identify MBM from a range of species, including pig, cow, poultry, goat, sheep and fish. Importantly, MBM treated at all temperatures up to and including 146°C can be correctly identified. The method can also accommodate mixed MBM samples originating from more than one species.
Contact us
For more information about our gelatine or meat and bone meal testing services, including prices and turnaround times, please