Food industry

Food quality control laboratory

Analysis of to carbon 14 allows to guarantee the authenticity, quality, and conformity of food products by measuring the proportion of bio-based materials and detecting possible adulterations.

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Carbon-14 measurement, at the heart of quality control

The carbon 14 concentration is the main indicator for determining the bio-based carbon content of food products. This radiocarbon analysis is carried out at each stage of the manufacturing process and helps to verify the absence of undeclared synthetic components or adulteration.

To ensure a precise and comprehensive service, CIRAM laboratories adhere to quality control procedures in the agri-food sector:

  • ASTM D6866: this is the international standard for the analysis of bio-based product content by radiocarbon method.
  • NF EN 16640: this European standard specifies the method used to determine bio-based carbon content by measuring carbon 14 content
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Radiocarbon analysis for rigorous control of food products

Carbon-14 analysis and stable isotope analysis allow for the evaluation of the composition and origin of food additives, particularly flavors, fragrances, and natural colorants. We provide:

  • Precise measurement of the proportion of natural products (biobased products derived from animal or plant matter) and synthetic ingredients (petrochemicals). With this measurement, you can be sure that your suppliers are meeting their commitments, thus improving your quality control.
  • A compliance test with current regulations to guarantee the authenticity of raw materials.
  • Scientific authentication of biological products by isotopic analysis.
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Challenges and practical applications for the food industry

01 - Analysis of essential oils

Radiocarbon analysis of essential oilswill make it possible to differentiate between natural and synthetic components. Indeed, it will measure the concentration of bio-based carbon versus petroleum-based carbon. The scientific teams at CIRAM are, in fact, capable of identifying adulteration of only 1%.

CIRAM laboratories offer you a reliable and fast service for the analysis of your food additives.

02 - Aroma analysis

The aromas and fragrances are crucial stakes in the food industry. Since natural variants are much more expensive, it is therefore important to evaluate and verify your raw materials and inputs.

Carbon-14 dating allows us to distinguish between an aroma of natural origin (radiocarbon concentration at 100) and a synthetic aroma (concentration at 0). However, we will have to couple radiocarbon analysis with stable carbon isotope analysis to differentiate vanillin derived from vanilla from vanillin derived from lignin, for example.

03 - Analysis of natural colorants

Natural colorants are prized for their organoleptic properties and their positive impact on consumer perception. However, fraud through substitution with synthetic pigments is an industrial reality.

Radiocarbon dating makes it possible to certify the natural origin of food colorants by measuring their carbon-14 content and to identify synthetic colorants even in the presence of complex mixtures.

Why choose CIRAM laboratories to analyze your food products?

CIRAM laboratories stand out for their cutting-edge scientific expertise in radiocarbon analysis, thus guaranteeing precise, rapid quality control that complies with international standards. Thanks to our carbon-14 analysis method, we provide a rigorous and reliable assessment of the bio-based carbon content of your food products.

Our approach follows reference standards, such as ASTM D6866 and NF EN 16640, ensuring your products comply with European and international regulatory requirements.

CIRAM accompanies you to analyze, certify, and optimize your food products. Benefit from the expertise of the European leader in radiocarbon dating and request your study on our website.

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Are you asking yourself these questions?

What is radiocarbon analysis, and how is it applied to the control of food products?

Radiocarbon analysis measures the carbon 14 content, allowing us to distinguish between bio-based and fossil carbon, which is essential for verifying the authenticity of honey and other agri-food products.

Why is it important to measure the biobased carbon content of food products?

This enables us to check that our products comply with international standards, and to guarantee their natural origin.

What types of food products can be analyzed using the radiocarbon method?

All products containing organic matter, such as flavorings, food additives, or even adulterated milk, can be analyzed.

How long does it take to obtain the results of a radiocarbon analysis?

Results are delivered within 10 working days, enabling rapid decision-making.

How can I contact CIRAM to carry out an analysis of food products?

You can easily get in touch with our teams via our website. Click on the "Contact our teams" button for more information or to request a customized study.

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