ISOTOPIC AND ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS OF AGRI-FOOD PRODUCTS FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE AND DETERMINATION OF GEOGRAPHICAL ORIGIN

Good health and well-being - Responsible consumption and production - Life on land

For achieving the objectives

Agenda 2030

The ratios of some isotopes, rare earths elements and heavy metals are specific “markers” of the geology of the different cultivation areas. The same values are transferred to the food crops grown in these areas and therefore the agro-food chain production and the products linked to the geographical origin can be traced. Furthermore, it is possible to accurately identify and quantify the presence of any toxic and harmful elements for human health, especially in those geographic areas with poor food control, such as Developing Countries.

The measurements are carried out with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometry technique and, to avoid contamination, the process is carried out in clean room ISO6 class.

 

Benefits and Advantages

  • Enhancement of the product;
  • Traceability, tracking and labelling;
  • Compliance with regulations in the case of import/export;
  • Quantification of possible pollutants present in the food matrix
  • Higher control over raw materials and / or the entire production cycle.

ENEA Services:

  • Isotopic analysis of agri-food products
  • Elementary analysis of agri-food products
  • Analysis of Carbon, Nitrogen and Total Carbon in organic and inorganic matrices.

 

ENEA Activities

Activities carried out in the regional "Traceability" Laboratory within the framework of the high technology network of the Emilia Romagna region.

Collaboration with agri-food industries.

References

Fusion and Technology for Nuclear Safety and Security Department

Contacts