Activated carbon/charcoal analysis for moisture and ash, iodine value, methylene value

Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal, plays a crucial role in various industries, including food and beverage production. It is widely used for purification, decolorization, and removal of impurities in food processing. To ensure the quality and safety of activated carbon used in the food industry, comprehensive analysis is essential. In this article, we will explore the significance of analysing moisture and ash content, iodine value, and methylene value of activated carbon in food applications and highlight the analytical services provided by Eurofins Food Testing Laboratory.

Moisture Content Analysis:

Moisture content is a critical factor in the analysis of activated carbon used in food processing. Excessive moisture can impact the adsorption capacity of activated carbon, leading to reduced efficiency and potential microbial growth. Our Food Testing Laboratory employs advanced techniques, such as loss on drying (LOD) or Karl Fischer titration, to accurately determine the moisture content of activated carbon. By conducting precise moisture content analysis, we ensure that the activated carbon used in food processing maintains optimal effectiveness, integrity, and safety.

Ash Content Analysis:

Ash content analysis plays a vital role in evaluating the purity and safety of activated carbon for food applications. Ash refers to the inorganic residue remaining after combustion. Elevated levels of ash may indicate the presence of impurities, such as heavy metals, which can pose risks to consumer health. At our Food Testing Laboratory, we utilize cutting-edge analytical methods, including muffle furnace or thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), to determine the ash content accurately. By conducting rigorous ash content analysis, we help food manufacturers ensure the absence of harmful impurities, safeguarding the integrity and safety of their products.

Iodine Value Analysis:

The iodine value is a critical parameter in the analysis of activated carbon for food applications. It measures the adsorption capacity of activated carbon for organic substances, making it especially relevant for removing unwanted flavors, odors, and organic contaminants. Our Food Testing Laboratory follows industry-standard methods, such as ASTM D4607 or equivalent protocols, to accurately determine the iodine value of activated carbon. This analysis empowers food manufacturers to select the most suitable activated carbon for their specific needs, facilitating optimal purification, flavor enhancement, and product quality.

Methylene Value Analysis:

The methylene value is an essential parameter for assessing the adsorption capacity of activated carbon for large molecules and color bodies. In food applications, it proves particularly valuable for decolorization and the removal of unwanted pigments and contaminants. Our Food Testing Laboratory utilizes the methylene blue adsorption test, adhering to recognized standards such as ASTM D2036, to provide reliable and precise methylene value analysis. By understanding the methylene value of activated carbon, we assist food manufacturers in making informed decisions regarding the selection and usage of activated carbon, ultimately enabling them to achieve the desired color and purity for their food products.

Significance of testing:

Health consequences:

Without proper testing of moisture and ash content, iodine value, and methylene value in activated carbon used in food applications, there can be potential health consequences. Here are the health impacts that may arise if these analyses are not performed:

Moisture Content:

• Reduced effectiveness: Excessive moisture in activated carbon can lead to decreased adsorption capacity, reducing its ability to remove impurities from food.
• Microbial growth: High moisture content creates a favourable environment for microbial growth, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Ash Content:

• Heavy metal contamination: Elevated levels of ash may indicate the presence of impurities, such as heavy metals, which can contaminate the food and pose serious health risks upon consumption.
• Toxicity: Ingesting foods contaminated with high levels of ash and impurities can lead to acute or chronic toxicity, affecting various organs and systems in the body.

Iodine Value:

• Incomplete purification: Without determining the iodine value, activated carbon may not effectively remove unwanted flavors, odors, and organic contaminants, compromising the quality and safety of food products.
• Potential health hazards: Consuming foods with residual organic contaminants can have adverse health effects, such as gastrointestinal issues or allergic reactions.

Methylene Value:

• Inadequate decolorization: If the methylene value is not assessed, activated carbon may not effectively remove unwanted pigments and color bodies, resulting in visually unappealing or substandard food products.
• Presence of contaminants: Failure to remove pigments and contaminants can lead to the consumption of foods with potential toxins or impurities, posing health risks

Regulations and standards:

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the regulatory body responsible for setting standards and regulations related to food safety and hygiene in India. FSSAI has established several standards applicable to various aspects of food, including activated carbon used in food applications.

Here are some relevant FSSAI standards that apply to activated carbon:

Food Additives:

FSSAI permits the use of activated carbon as a food additive under certain conditions. The specifications and permissible limits for food additives are outlined in the FSSAI Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations.

Contaminant Limits:

FSSAI has established maximum permissible limits for various contaminants, including heavy metals and pesticides, in food products. Activated carbon used in food applications must comply with these limits to ensure food safety and consumer protection.

Eurofins role in testing Activated carbon/charcoal analysis for moisture and ash, iodine value, methylene value:

Eurofins, as a leading provider of food testing laboratory services, plays a crucial role in testing and analyzing activated carbon/charcoal for various parameters, including moisture and ash content, iodine value, and methylene value. Eurofins offers comprehensive analytical services to ensure the quality, safety, and compliance of activated carbon used in food applications.

Eurofins Analytical Services India, located in Bangalore, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving recognition from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Laboratory Accreditation for Analyses of Foods (LAAF) program. This makes Eurofins the first laboratory in Asia to receive such recognition.

References

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237294983_Activated_Carbon_Production_from_Pyrolysis_and_Steam_Activation_of_Cotton_Gin_Trash/figures?lo=1
2. https://www.ijlera.com/papers/v3-i1/4.201801005.pdf
3. https://www.mdpi.com/2504-477X/7/5/179

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