Reading Scientific Services (RSSL) has established a dedicated acrylamide testing laboratory in a move to increase capacity and reduce turnaround times.
The scientific consultancy has developed a bespoke approach to acrylamide detection using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) - one of the two EU-recommended analytical techniques - and its own modified test method specifically designed to ramp up volume capabilities.
RSSL’s robust service has achieved UKAS accreditation for biscuits and is equally applicable to all relevant food categories such as crisps, coffee and bread.
“While acrylamide testing has been part of RSSL’s technical service for many years, the prospect and subsequent adoption of the new EU acrylamide legislation has prompted a rise in demand. The expansion of our team and laboratory space not only enables us to handle a large number of test samples in a short timeframe, it is also highly cost efficient. Benefits which are particularly important for companies undertaking large due diligence programmes involving multiple products or batches,” explained Emilie Clauzier, senior scientist and technical specialist at RSSL.
Demonstrating compliance with the legislation is a priority for our customers and due to the variability of certain raw materials, regular monitoring of products throughout the year is now essential.
"Our detailed analysis provides data which can be used to link recipes and processing parameters with the presence of acrylamide in the finished product. We can then work with customers to identify how to further mitigate against this formation, if levels are above the range set by the EU." Clauzier said.
“We are also continuing to build our capability in terms of the range of test products in order to stay one step ahead of future developments. A formal review is also scheduled to take place three years from now, when it is hoped further positive progress will have been made by the industry and benchmark levels may be cut again by regulators,” commented Clauzier.