Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/771 of 29 February 2024 amending Regulation (EC) No 152/2009 laying down the methods of sampling and analysis for the official control of feed

Type Implementing Regulation
Publication 2024-03-15
State In force
Text As published
Department European Commission, SANTE
Source EUR-Lex
articles 2

This is the act as published. Later amendments are not folded into the text below: each one is a separate act in this repository and an entry in this law's history.

Reform history JSON API
Sample 1 Mixed pig feed(CRM 117) Sample 2 Low fat fish meal (CRM 118) Sample 3 Soybean meal (CRM 119) Sample 4 Skimmed milk powder (CRM 120)
L 7 7 7 7
n 25 30 30 30
Mean [g/kg] 2,064 8,801 6,882 5,236
sr [g/kg] 0,021 0,101 0,089 0,040
r [g/kg] 0,059 0,283 0,249 0,112
CVr [%] 1,04 1,15 1,30 0,76
SR [g/kg] 0,031 0,413 0,283 0,221
R [g/kg] 0,087 1,156 0,792 0,619
CVR [%] 1,48 4,69 4,11 4,22
L = number of laboratories submitting results n = number of single results retained after eliminating outliers (identified by Cochran, Dixon outlier test) sr = standard deviation of repeatability SR = standard deviation of reproducibility r = repeatability R = reproducibility CVr = coefficient of variation of repeatability, % CVR = coefficient of variation of reproducibility, %. L = number of laboratories submitting results n = number of single results retained after eliminating outliers (identified by Cochran, Dixon outlier test) sr = standard deviation of repeatability SR = standard deviation of reproducibility r = repeatability R = reproducibility CVr = coefficient of variation of repeatability, % CVR = coefficient of variation of reproducibility, %. L = number of laboratories submitting results n = number of single results retained after eliminating outliers (identified by Cochran, Dixon outlier test) sr = standard deviation of repeatability SR = standard deviation of reproducibility r = repeatability R = reproducibility CVr = coefficient of variation of repeatability, % CVR = coefficient of variation of reproducibility, %. L = number of laboratories submitting results n = number of single results retained after eliminating outliers (identified by Cochran, Dixon outlier test) sr = standard deviation of repeatability SR = standard deviation of reproducibility r = repeatability R = reproducibility CVr = coefficient of variation of repeatability, % CVR = coefficient of variation of reproducibility, %. L = number of laboratories submitting results n = number of single results retained after eliminating outliers (identified by Cochran, Dixon outlier test) sr = standard deviation of repeatability SR = standard deviation of reproducibility r = repeatability R = reproducibility CVr = coefficient of variation of repeatability, % CVR = coefficient of variation of reproducibility, %.

9. Observations

9.1. Following special chromatographic conditions may give better separation between tryptophan and α-methyl-tryptophan. Isocratic elution followed by gradient column cleaning: Liquid chromatographic column: 125 mm × 4 mm, C18, 5 μm packing or equivalent Column temperature: 32 °C Mobile phase: A: 0,01 mol/l KH2PO4/Methanol, 95 + 5 (V + V) B: Methanol Gradient programme: 0 min 100 % A 0 % B 15 min 100 % A 0 % B 17 min 60 % A 40 % B 19 min 60 % A 40 % B 21 min 100 % A 0 % B 33 min 100 % A 0 % B Flow rate: 1,2 ml/min Total run time: approx. 33 min.
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9.2. The chromatography will vary according to the type of HPLC and column packing material used. The chosen system must be capable of giving baseline separation between the tryptophan and the internal standard. Moreover, it is important that degradation products are well separated from the tryptophan and the internal standard. Hydrolysates without internal standard shall be run in order to check the base line under the internal standard for impurities. It is important that the run time is sufficiently long for the elution of all the degradation products, otherwise late eluting peaks may interfere with subsequent chromatographic runs. In the range of operation, the chromatographic system shall give linear response. The linear response shall be measured with a constant (the normal) concentration of the internal standard and varying concentrations of tryptophan. It is of importance that the size of both the tryptophan and internal standard peaks are within the linear range of the HPLC/fluorescence system. If either the tryptophan and/or the internal standard peak(s) is (are) too small or too high the analysis shall be repeated with another sample size and/or a changed final volume.

9.3.   Barium hydroxide

With age barium hydroxide becomes more difficult to dissolve. This results in an unclear solution for the HPLC determination, which may produce low results for tryptophan.

G. DETERMINATION OF CRUDE OILS AND FATS

1. Purpose and scope

This method is for the determination of crude oils and fats in feed.

The use of the two procedures described below depends on the nature and composition of the feed and the reason for carrying out the analysis.

For the determination of crude oils and fats in oil seeds and oleaginous fruit as well in feed in which the crude oil/fat content is higher than 15 %, the extraction should be performed by Procedure A and re-extraction by Procedure B (point 5.3).

1.1.   Procedure A – Directly extractable crude oils and fats

This method is applicable to feed materials of plant origin, except those included within the scope of Procedure B.

1.2.   Procedure B – Total crude oils and fats

This method is applicable to feed materials of animal origin and to all compound feeds. It is to be used for all materials from which the oils and fats cannot be completely extracted without prior hydrolysis (e.g. gluten, yeast, potato proteins and products subjected to processes such as extrusion, flaking and heating).

1.3.   Interpretation of results

In all cases where a higher result is obtained by using Procedure B than by Procedure A, the result obtained by Procedure B shall be accepted as the true value.

2. Principle

2.1.   Procedure A

The sample is extracted with light petroleum. The solvent is distilled off and the residue dried and weighed.

2.2.   Procedure B

The sample is treated under heating with hydrochloric acid. The mixture is cooled and filtered. The residue is washed and dried and submitted to the determination according to Procedure A.

3. Reagents

3.1. Light petroleum, boiling range: 40 to 60 °C. The bromine value must be less than 1 and the residue on evaporation less than 2 mg/100 ml.
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3.2. Sodium sulfate, anhydrous.
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3.3. Hydrochloric acid, c = 3 mol/l.
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3.4. Filtration aid, e.g. Kieselguhr, Hyflo-supercel.

4. Apparatus

4.1. Extraction apparatus. If fitted with a siphon (Soxhlet apparatus), the reflux rate shall be such as to produce about 10 cycles per hour; if of the non-siphoning type, the reflux rate shall be about 10 ml per minute.
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4.2. Extraction thimbles, free of matter soluble in light petroleum and having a porosity consistent with the requirements of point 4.1.
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4.3. Drying oven, either a vacuum oven set at 75 ± 3 °C or an air-oven set at 100 ± 3 °C.

5. Procedure

5.1.   Procedure A (see point 8.1)

Weigh 5 g of the sample to the nearest 1 mg, transfer it to an extraction thimble (point 4.2) and cover with a fat-free wad of cotton wool.

Place the thimble in an extractor (point 4.1) and extract for six hours with light petroleum (point 3.1). Collect the light petroleum extract in a dry, weighed flask containing fragments of pumice stone 33.

Distil off the solvent. Dry the residue maintaining the flask for one and a half hours in the drying oven (point 4.3). Leave to cool in a desiccator and weigh. Dry again for 30 minutes to ensure that the weight of the oils and fats remains constant (loss in weight between two successive weighings must be less than or equal to 1 mg).

5.2.   Procedure B

Weigh 2,5 g of the sample to the nearest 1 mg (see point 8.2), place in a 400 ml beaker or a 300 ml conical flask and add 100 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.3) and fragments of pumice stone. Cover the beaker with a watch glass or fit the conical flask with a reflux condenser. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over a low flame or a hot-plate and keep it there for one hour. Do not allow the product to stick to the sides of the container.

Cool and add a quantity of filtration aid (point 3.4) sufficient to prevent any loss of oil and fat during filtration. Filter through a moistened, fat-free, double filter paper. Wash the residue in cold water until a neutral filtrate is obtained. Check that the filtrate does not contain any oil or fats. Their presence indicates that the sample must be extracted with light petroleum, using Procedure A, before hydrolysis.

Place the double filter paper containing the residue on a watch glass and dry for one and a half hours in the air oven (point 4.3) at 100 ± 3 °C.

Place the double filter paper containing the dry residue in an extraction thimble (point 4.2) and cover with a fat-free wad of cotton wool. Place the thimble in an extractor (point 4.1) and proceed as indicated in the second and third paragraph of point 5.1.

5.3.   Procedure A and re-extraction by Procedure B

For the determination of crude oils and fats in oil seeds and oleaginous fruit as well in feed in which the crude oil/fat content is higher than 15 % the extraction should be performed by Procedure A and re-extraction by Procedure B.

This means after the extraction with light petroleum (procedure A), the residue or a portion of the residue is re-extracted with hydrochloric acid (procedure B). The crude oil and fat content is the sum of the result of procedure A and B.

6. Expression of result

Express the weight of the residue as a percentage of the sample.

7. Repeatability

The difference between the results of two parallel determinations carried out on the same sample by the same analyst shall not exceed:

  • — 0,2 %, in absolute value, for contents of crude oils and fats lower than 5 %,
  • — 4,0 % relative to the highest result for contents of 5 to 10 %,
  • — 0,4 % in absolute value, for contents above 10 %.

8. Observations

8.1. For products with a high content of oils and fats, which are difficult to crush or unsuitable for drawing a homogeneous reduced test sample, proceed as follows. Weigh 20 g of the sample to the nearest 1 mg and mix with 10 g or more of anhydrous sodium sulfate (point 3.2). Extract with light petroleum (point 3.1) as indicated in point 5.1. Make up the extract obtained to 500 ml with light petroleum (point 3.1) and mix. Take 50 ml of the solution and place in a small, dry, weighed flask containing fragments of pumice stone. Distil off the solvent, dry and proceed as indicated in the last paragraph of point 5.1. Eliminate the solvent from the extraction residue left in the thimble, crush the residue to a fineness of 1 mm, return it to the extraction thimble (do not add sodium sulfate) and proceed as indicated in the second and third paragraphs of point 5.1. Calculate the content of oils and fats as a percentage of the sample by using the following formula: Image omitted; see official source where: m1 = weight in grams of the residue after the first extraction (aliquot part of the extract), m2 = weight in grams of the residue after the second extraction.
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8.2. For some products (e.g. low in oils and fats) the test sample may be increased.
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8.3. Pet foods containing a high content of water may need to be mixed with anhydrous sodium sulfate prior to hydrolysis and extraction as per Procedure B.
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8.4. In point 5.2 it may be more effective to use hot water in place of cold water to wash the residue after filtration.
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8.5. The drying time of 1,5 h may need to be extended for some feed. Excessive drying shall be avoided as this can lead to low results. A microwave oven can also be used.

H. DETERMINATION OF CRUDE FIBRE

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine fat-free organic substances in feed which are insoluble in acid and alkaline media and are conventionally described as crude fibre.

The method is not applicable in the case of lignocellulose and vegetable carbon (particles too fine).

2. Principle

The sample, defatted where necessary, is treated successively with boiling solutions of sulphuric acid and potassium hydroxide of specified concentrations. The residue is separated by filtration on a sintered-glass filter, washed, dried, weighed and ashed within a range of 475 to 500 °C. The loss of weight resulting from ashing corresponds to the crude fibre present in the test sample.

3. Reagents

3.1. Sulphuric acid, c = 0,13 mol/l.
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3.2. Anti-foaming agent (e.g. n-octanol).
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3.3. Filter aid (Celite 545 or equivalent), heated at 500 °C for four hours (point 8.6).
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3.4. Acetone.
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3.5. Light petroleum boiling-range 40 to 60 °C.
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3.6. Hydrochloric acid, c = 0,5 mol/l.
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3.7. Potassium hydroxide solution, c = 0,23 mol/l.

4. Apparatus

4.1. Heating unit for digestion with sulphuric acid and potassium hydroxide solution, equipped with a support for the filter crucible (point 4.2) and provided with an outlet tube with a tap to the liquid outlet and vacuum, possibly with compressed air. Before use each day preheat the unit with boiling water for five minutes.
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4.2. Glass filter crucible with fused sintered glass filter plate pore size 40-90 μm. Before first use, heat to 500 °C for a few minutes and cool (point 8.6).
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4.3. Cylinder of at least 270 ml with a reflux condenser, suitable for boiling.
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4.4. Drying oven with thermostat.
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4.5. Muffle furnace with thermostat.
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4.6. Extraction unit consisting of a support plate for the filter crucible (point 4.2) and with a discharge pipe with a tap to the vacuum and liquid outlet.
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4.7. Connecting rings to assemble the heating unit (point 4.1), crucible (point 4.2) and cylinder (point 4.3) and to connect the cold extraction unit (point 4.6) and crucible.

5. Procedure

Weigh out 1 g of the prepared sample to the nearest 1 mg and place it in the crucible (point 4.2), (see observations points 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3) and add 1 g of filter aid (point 3.3).

Assemble the heating unit (point 4.1) and the filter crucible (point 4.2), then attach the cylinder (point 4.3) to the crucible. Pour 150 ml of boiling sulphuric acid (point 3.1) into the assembled cylinder and crucible and if necessary add a few drops of antifoaming agent (point 3.2).

Bring the liquid to the boil within 5 ± 2 minutes and boil vigorously for exactly 30 minutes.

Open the tap to the discharge pipe (point 4.1) and, under vacuum, filter the sulphuric acid through the filter crucible and wash the residue with three consecutive 30 ml portions of boiling water, ensuring that the residue is filtered dry after each washing.

Close the outlet tap and pour 150 ml boiling potassium hydroxide solution (point 3.7) to the assembled cylinder and crucible and add a few drops of antifoaming agent (point 3.2). Bring the liquid to boiling point within 5 ± 2 minutes and boil vigorously for exactly 30 minutes. Filter and repeat the washing procedure used for the sulphuric acid step.

After the final washing and drying, disconnect the crucible and its contents and reconnect it to the cold extraction unit (point 4.6). Apply the vacuum and wash the residue in the crucible with three consecutive 25 ml portions of acetone (point 3.4) ensuring that the residue is filtered dry after each washing.

Dry the crucible to constant weight in the oven at 130 °C. After each drying cool in the desiccator and weigh rapidly. Place the crucible in a muffle furnace and ash to constant weight (loss in weight between two successive weighings must be less than or equal to 2 mg) at 475 °C to 500 °C for at least 30 minutes.

After each heating cool first in the furnace and then in the desiccator before weighing.

Carry out a blank test without the sample. Loss of weight resulting from ashing must not exceed 4 mg.

6. Calculation of results

The crude fibre content as a percentage of the sample is given by the expression:

Image omitted; see official source

where:

m = weight of sample in g;
m0 = loss of weight after ashing during the determination, in g;
m1 = loss of weight after ashing during the blank test, in g.

7. Repeatability

The difference between two parallel determinations carried out on the same sample must not exceed:

  • — 0,6 % in absolute value for crude fibre contents lower than 10 %,
  • — 6 % relative to the higher result, for crude fibre contents equal to or greater than 10 %.

8. Reproducibility

The difference between the results of two determinations carried out on the same sample in different laboratories must not exceed:

  • — 1,0 % in absolute value for crude fibre contents lower than 10 %,
  • — 10 % relative to the higher result, for crude fibre contents equal to or greater than 10 %.

9. Observations

9.1. Feed containing more than 10 % crude fat must be defatted prior to analysis with light petroleum (point 3.5). Connect the filter crucible (point 4.2) and its contents to the cold extraction unit (point 4.6) and apply vacuum and wash the residue with three consecutive 30 ml portions of light petroleum, ensuring that the residue is dry. Connect the crucible and its contents to the heating unit (point 4.1) and continue as described under point 5.
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9.2. Feed containing fats which cannot be extracted directly with light petroleum (point 3.5) must be defatted as shown in point 8.1 and defatted once more after boiling with acid. After boiling with acid and the subsequent washing connect the crucible and its contents to the cold extraction unit (point 4.6) and wash three times with 30 ml acetone followed by three further washings with 30 ml portions of light petroleum. Filter under vacuum until dry and continue the analysis as described under point 5, beginning with potassium hydroxide treatment.
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9.3. If the feed contain over 5 % of carbonates, expressed as calcium carbonate, connect the crucible (point 4.2) with the weighed sample to the heating unit (point 4.1). Wash the sample three times with 30 ml hydrochloric acid (point 3.6). After each addition let the sample stand for about one minute before filtering. Wash once with 30 ml water and then continue as described under point 5.
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9.4. If an apparatus in the form of a stand is used (several crucibles attached to the same heating unit) no two individual determinations on the same sample for analysis may be carried out in the same series.
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9.5. If after boiling it is difficult to filter the acidic and basic solutions, use compressed air through the discharge pipe of the heating unit and then continue filtering.
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9.6. The temperature for ashing shall not be higher than 500 °C in order to extend the lifetime of the glass filter crucibles. Care must be taken to avoid excessive thermal shock during heating and cooling cycles.

I. DETERMINATION OF SUGAR

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine the amount of reducing sugars and total sugars after inversion, expressed as glucose or where appropriate as sucrose, converting by the factor 0,95. It is applicable to compound feed. Special methods are provided for other feed. Where necessary, lactose shall be measured separately and taken into account when calculating the results.

This method is to be used for the determination of the sugar content for use in energy value calculation of the feed.

In case the sugar content is to be determined for other purposes, other methods of analysis can be used.

2. Principle

The sugars are extracted in dilute ethanol; the solution is clarified with Carrez solutions I and II. After eliminating the ethanol, the quantities before and after inversion are determined by the Luff-Schoorl method.

3. Reagents

3.1. Ethanol solution 40 % (v/v) density: 0,948 g/ml at 20 °C, neutralised to phenolphthalein.
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3.2. Carrez solution I: dissolve in water 21,9 g of zinc acetate Zn (CH3COO)2 2H2O and 3 g of glacial acetic acid. Make up to 100 ml with water.
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3.3. Carrez solution II: dissolve in water 10,6 g of potassium ferrocyanide K4Fe (CN)6 3H2O. Make up to 100 ml with water.
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3.4. Methyl orange, solution 0,1 % (w/v).
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3.5. Hydrochloric acid 4 mol/litre.
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3.6. Hydrochloric acid 0,1 mol/litre.
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3.7. Sodium hydroxide solution 0,1 mol/litre.
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3.8. Luff-Schoorl reagent: Stirring carefully, pour the citric acid solution (point 3.8.2) into the sodium carbonate solution (point 3.8.3). Add the copper sulphate solution (point 3.8.1) and make up to 1 litre with water. Leave to settle overnight and filter. Check the concentration of the reagent thus obtained (Cu 0,05 mol/litre; Na2 CO3 1 mol/litre), see point 5.4, last paragraph. The solution’s pH shall be approximately 9,4.
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3.8.1. Copper sulphate solution: dissolve 25 g of copper sulphate, Cu SO4 5H2O, free from iron, in 100 ml of water.
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3.8.2. Citric acid solution: dissolve 50 g of citric acid, C6H8O7•H2O in 50 ml of water.
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3.8.3. Sodium carbonate solution: dissolve 143,8 g of anhydrous sodium carbonate in approximately 300 ml of warm water. Leave to cool.
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3.9. Sodium thiosulphate solution 0,1 mol/litre.
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3.10. Starch solution: add a mixture of 5 g of soluble starch in 30 ml of water to 1 litre of boiling water. Boil for three minutes, leave to cool and if necessary add 10 mg of mercuric iodide as a preservative.
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3.11. Sulphuric acid 3 mol/litre.
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3.12. Potassium iodide, solution 30 % (w/v).
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3.13. Granulated pumice stone boiled in hydrochloric acid, washed in water and dried.
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3.14. 3-methylbutan-1-ol.

4. Apparatus

Mixer (tumbler): approximately 35 to 40 rpm.

5. Procedure

5.1.   Extraction of sample

Weigh 2,5 g of the sample to the nearest mg and place in a 250 ml volumetric flask. Add 200 ml of ethanol (point 3.1) and mix in the tumbler for one hour. Add 5 ml of Carrez solution I (point 3.2) and stir for approximately 30 seconds. Add 5 ml of Carrez solution II (point 3.3) and again stir for one minute. Make up to volume with ethanol (point 3.1), homogenise and filter. Remove 200 ml of the filtrate and evaporate to approximately half volume in order to eliminate most of the ethanol. Transfer the evaporation residue quantitatively to a 200 ml volumetric flask using warm water, cool, bring up to volume with water, homogenise and filter if necessary. This solution will be used to determine the amount of reducing sugars and, after inversion, of total sugars.

5.2.   Determination of reducing sugars

Using a pipette, remove not more than 25 ml of the solution containing less than 60 mg of reducing sugars expressed as glucose. If necessary, make up to 25 ml with distilled water and determine the content of reducing sugars by the Luff-Schoorl method. The result is expressed as the percentage content of glucose in the sample.

5.3.   Determination of total sugars after inversion

Using a pipette take 50 ml of the solution and transfer to a 100 ml volumetric flask. Add a few drops of methyl orange solution (point 3.4) then, carefully and stirring continuously, add hydrochloric acid (point 3.5) until the liquid turns a definite red. Add 15 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.6), immerse the flask in a fast boiling water bath and keep there for thirty minutes. Cool rapidly to approximately 20 °C and add 15 ml of sodium hydroxide solution (point 3.7). Make up to 100 ml with water and homogenise. Remove not more than 25 ml containing less than 60 mg of reducing sugars expressed as glucose. If necessary, make up to 25 ml with distilled water and determine the content of reducing sugars by the Luff-Schoorl method. The result is expressed as the percentage of glucose or, where appropriate, sucrose, by multiplying by the factor 0,95.

5.4.   Titration by the Luff-Schoorl method

Using a pipette, take 25 ml of Luff-Schoorl reagent (point 3.8) and transfer to a 300 ml Erlenmeyer flask; add exactly 25 ml of the clarified sugar solution. Add 2 granules of pumice stone (point 3.13), heat, stirring by hand, over a free flame of medium height and bring the liquid to the boil in approximately two minutes. Place the Erlenmeyer immediately on an asbestos-coated wire gauze with a hole approximately 6 cm in diameter under which a flame has been lit. The flame shall be regulated in such a way that only the base of the Erlenmeyer is heated. Fit a reflux condenser to the Erlenmeyer flask. Boil for exactly ten minutes. Cool immediately in cold water and after approximately five minutes titrate as follows:

Add 10 ml of potassium iodide solution (point 3.12) and immediately afterwards (carefully, because of the risk of abundant foaming), add 25 ml of sulphuric acid (point 3.11). Titrate with sodium thiosulphate solution (point 3.9) until a dull yellow colour appears, add the starch indicator (point 3.10) and complete titration.

Carry out the same titration on an accurately measured mixture of 25 ml of Luff-Schoorl reagent (point 3.8) and 25 ml of water, after adding 10 ml of potassium iodide solution (point 3.12) and 25 ml of sulphuric acid (point 3.11) without boiling.

6. Calculation of results

Using the table establish the amount of glucose in mg which corresponds to the difference between the values of the two titrations, expressed in ml of sodium thiosulphate 0,1 mol/litre. Express the result as a percentage of the sample.

7. Special procedures

7.1. In the case of feed which are rich in molasses and other feed which are not particularly homogeneous, weigh out 20 g and place with 500 ml of water in a 1 litre volumetric flask. Mix for one hour in the tumbler. Clarify using Carrez solutions I (point 3.2) and II (point 3.3) reagents as described under point 5.1, this time however using four times the quantities of each reagent. Bring up to volume with 80 % ethanol (v/v). Homogenise and filter. Eliminate the ethanol as described under point 5.1. If there is no dextrinised starch, bring up to volume with distilled water.
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7.2. In the case of molasses and feed materials which are rich in sugar and almost starch-free (carobs, dried beetroot cossettes, etc.), weigh out 5 g, place in a 250 ml volumetric flask, add 200 ml of distilled water and mix in the tumbler for one hour, or more if necessary. Clarify using Carrez solutions I (point 3.2) and II (point 3.3) reagents as described under point 5.1. Bring up to volume with cold water, homogenise and filter. In order to determine the amount of total sugars, continue as described under point 5.3.

8. Observations

8.1. In order to prevent foaming it is advisable to add (irrespective of the volume) approximately 1 ml of 3-methylbutan-1-ol (point 3.14) before boiling with Luff-Schoorl reagent.
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8.2. The difference between the content of total sugars after inversion, expressed as glucose, and the content of reducing sugars, expressed as glucose, multiplied by 0,95, gives the percentage content of sucrose.
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8.3. In order to determine the content of reducing sugars, excluding lactose, two methods may be adopted:
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8.3.1. For an approximate calculation, multiply by 0,675 the lactose content established by a different method of analysis and subtract the result obtained from the content of reducing sugars.
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8.3.2. For an accurate calculation of reducing sugars, excluding lactose, the same sample must be used for the two final determinations. One of the analyses is carried out on part of the solution obtained under point 5.1, the other on part of the solution obtained during the determination of lactose by the method laid down for that purpose (after fermenting the other types of sugar and clarifying). In both cases the amount of sugar present is determined by the Luff-Schoorl method and calculated in mg of glucose. One of the values is subtracted from the other and the difference is expressed as a percentage of the sample. Example The two volumes taken correspond, for each determination, to a sample of 250 mg. In the first case 17 ml of sodium thiosulphate solution 0,1 mol/litre corresponding to 44,2 mg of glucose is consumed; in the second, 11 ml, corresponding to 27,6 mg of glucose. The difference is 16,6 mg of glucose. The content of reducing sugars (excluding lactose), calculated as glucose, is therefore: Image omitted; see official source Table of values for 25 ml of Luff Schoorl reagent ml of Na2 S2 O3 0,1 mol/litre, two minutes’ heating, ten minutes’ boiling Na2 S2 O3 0,1 mol/litre Glucose, fructose invert sugars C6 H12 O6 Lactose C12 H22 O11 Na2 S2 O3 0,1 mol/litre ml mg difference mg difference ml 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 2,4 4,8 7,2 9,7 12,2 14,7 17,2 19,8 22,4 25,0 27,6 30,3 33,0 35,7 38,5 41,3 44,2 47,1 50,0 53,0 56,0 59,1 62,2 2,4 2,4 2,5 2,5 2,5 2,5 2,6 2,6 2,6 2,6 2,7 2,7 2,7 2,8 2,8 2,9 2,9 2,9 3,0 3,0 3,1 3,1 3,6 7,3 11,0 14,7 18,4 22,1 25,8 29,5 33,2 37,0 40,8 44,6 48,4 52,2 56,0 59,9 63,8 67,7 71,7 75,7 79,8 83,9 88,0 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,8 3,8 3,8 3,8 3,8 3,8 3,9 3,9 3,9 4,0 4,0 4,1 4,1 4,1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

J. DETERMINATION OF LACTOSE

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine the level of lactose in feed containing more than 0,5 % of lactose.

2. Principle

The sugars are dissolved in water. The solution is subjected to fermentation by the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae which leaves the lactose intact. After clarification and filtration the lactose content of the filtrate is determined by the Luff-Schoorl method.

3. Reagents

3.1. Suspension of Saccharomyces cerevisiae: suspend 25 g of fresh yeast in 100 ml of water. The suspension will keep for a maximum period of one week in a refrigerator.
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3.2. Carrez solution I: dissolve in water 21,9 g of zinc acetate, Zn (CH3 COO)2 2H2O and 3 g of glacial acetic acid. Make up to 100 ml with water.
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3.3. Carrez solution II: dissolve in water 10,6 g of potassium ferrocyanide K4Fe (CN)6 3H2O. Make up to 100 ml with water.
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3.4. Luff-Schoorl reagent: Stirring carefully, pour the citric acid solution (point 3.4.2) into the sodium carbonate solution (point 3.4.3). Add the copper sulphate solution (point 3.4.1) and make up to 1 litre with water. Leave to settle overnight and filter. Check the concentration of the reagent thus obtained (Cu 0,05 mol/litre; Na2 CO3 1 mol/litre). The solution’s pH shall be approximately 9,4.
--- --- ---
3.4.1. Copper sulphate solution: dissolve 25 g of copper sulphate Cu SO4 5H2O, free from iron, in 100 ml of water.
--- --- ---
3.4.2. Citric acid solution: dissolve 50 g of citric acid C6H8O7 • H2O in 50 ml of water.
--- --- ---
3.4.3. Sodium carbonate solution: dissolve 143,8 g of anhydrous sodium carbonate in approximately 300 ml of warm water. Leave to cool.
--- --- ---
3.5. Granulated pumice stone boiled in hydrochloric acid, washed in water and dried.
--- --- ---
3.6. Potassium iodide, solution 30 % (w/v).
--- --- ---
3.7. Sulphuric acid 3 mol/litre.
--- --- ---
3.8. Solution of sodium thiosulphate 0,1 mol/litre.
--- --- ---
3.9. Starch solution: add a mixture of 5 g of soluble starch in 30 ml of water to 1 litre of boiling water. Boil for three minutes, leave to cool, and if necessary add 10 mg of mercuric iodide as a preservative.

4. Apparatus

Water bath with thermostat set at 38–40 °C.

5. Procedure

Weigh 1 g of the sample to the nearest mg and place this portion of the sample in a 100 ml volumetric flask. Add 25 to 30 ml of water. Place the flask in a boiling water bath for thirty minutes and then cool to approximately 35 °C. Add 5 ml of yeast suspension (point 3.1) and homogenise. Leave the flask to stand for two hours in a water bath, at a temperature of 38–40 °C. Cool to approximately 20 °C.

Add 2,5 ml of Carrez solution I (point 3.2) and stir for thirty seconds, then add 2,5 ml of Carrez solution II (point 3.3) and again stir for thirty seconds. Make up to 100 ml with water, mix and filter. Using a pipette, remove an amount of filtrate which does not exceed 25 ml and which preferably contains from 40 to 80 mg of lactose and transfer it to a 300 ml Erlenmeyer flask. If necessary, make up to 25 ml with water.

Carry out a blank test in the same way with 5 ml of yeast suspension (point 3.1). Determine the lactose content according to Luff-Schoorl, as follows: add exactly 25 ml of Luff-Schoorl reagent (point 3.4) and two granules of pumice stone (point 3.5). Stir by hand while heating over a free flame of medium height and bring the liquid to the boil in approximately two minutes. Place the Erlenmeyer immediately on an asbestos-coated wire gauze with a hole approximately 6 cm in diameter under which a flame has been lit. The flame shall be regulated in such a way that only the base of the Erlenmeyer is heated. Fit a reflux condenser to the Erlenmeyer flask. Boil for exactly ten minutes. Cool immediately in cold water and after approximately five minutes titrate as follows:

Add 10 ml of potassium iodide solution (point 3.6) and immediately afterwards (carefully, because of the risk of abundant foaming) add 25 ml of sulphuric acid (point 3.7). Titrate with sodium thiosulphate solution (point 3.8) until a dull yellow colour appears, add the starch indicator (point 3.9) and complete titration.

Carry out the same titration on an accurately measured mixture of 25 ml of Luff-Schoorl reagent (point 3.4) and 25 ml of water, after adding 10 ml of potassium iodide solution (point 3.6) and 25 ml of sulphuric acid (point 3.7) without boiling.

6. Calculation of results

Using the attached table, establish the amount of lactose in mg which corresponds to the difference between the results of the two titrations, expressed in ml of sodium thiosulphate 0,1 mol/litre.

Express the result of anhydrous lactose as a percentage of the sample.

7. Observation

1. For products containing more than 40 % of fermentable sugar, use more than 5 ml of yeast suspension (point 3.1).
--- --- ---
2. In “lactose reduced” feed (e.g. cat milk), lactose is converted into fructose, which is not completely fermented within 2 hours resulting in higher or false positive results (because residues of fructose remain in the extract). Table of values for 25 ml of Luff-Schoorl reagent ml of Na2 S2 O3 0,1 mol/litre, two minutes’ heating, ten minutes’ boiling Na2 S2 O3 0,1 mol/litre Glucose, fructose invert sugars C6 H12 O6 Lactose C12 H22 O11 Na2 S2 O3 0,1 mol/litre ml mg difference mg difference ml 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 2,4 4,8 7,2 9,7 12,2 14,7 17,2 19,8 22,4 25,0 27,6 30,3 33,0 35,7 38,5 41,3 44,2 47,1 50,0 53,0 56,0 59,1 62,2 2,4 2,4 2,5 2,5 2,5 2,5 2,6 2,6 2,6 2,6 2,7 2,7 2,7 2,8 2,8 2,9 2,9 2,9 3,0 3,0 3,1 3,1 3,6 7,3 11,0 14,7 18,4 22,1 25,8 29,5 33,2 37,0 40,8 44,6 48,4 52,2 56,0 59,9 63,8 67,7 71,7 75,7 79,8 83,9 88,0 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,7 3,8 3,8 3,8 3,8 3,8 3,8 3,9 3,9 3,9 4,0 4,0 4,1 4,1 4,1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

K. DETERMINATION OF STARCH

POLARIMETRIC METHOD

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine the levels of starch and of high molecular weight starch degradation products in feed for the purpose of checking compliance with the declared energy value (provisions in Annex VII) and Regulation (EC) No 767/2009.

This method is to be used for the determination of the starch content for use in energy value calculation of the feed.

In case the starch content is to be determined for other purposes, other methods of analysis can be used.

2. Principle

The method comprises of two determinations. In the first one, the sample is treated with dilute hydrochloric acid. After clarification and filtration, the optical rotation of the solution is measured by polarimetry.

In the second one, the sample is extracted with 40 % ethanol. After acidifying the filtrate with hydrochloric acid, clarifying and filtering, the optical rotation is measured as in the first determination.

The difference between the two measurements, multiplied by a known factor, gives the starch content of the sample.

3. Reagents

3.1. Hydrochloric acid, solution 25 % (w/w) density: 1,126 g/ml.
--- --- ---
3.2. Hydrochloric acid. solution 1,13 % (w/v) The concentration must be checked by titration using a sodium hydroxide solution 0,1 mol/litre in the presence of 0,1 % (w/v) methyl red in 94 % (v/v) ethanol. For the neutralisation of 10 ml, 30,94 ml of NaOH 0,1 mol/litre is needed.
--- --- ---
3.3. Carrez solution I: dissolve 21,9 g of zinc acetate Zn(CH3COO)2 2H2O and 3 g of glacial acetic acid in water. Make up to 100 ml with water.
--- --- ---
3.4. Carrez solution II: dissolve 10,6 g of potassium ferrocyanide K4 Fe(CN)6 3H2O in water. Make up to 100 ml with water.
--- --- ---
3.5. Ethanol, solution 40 % (v/v), density: 0,948 g/ml at 20 °C.

4. Apparatus

4.1. 250 ml Erlenmeyer flask with standard ground-glass joint and with reflux condenser.
--- --- ---
4.2. Polarimeter or saccharimeter.

5. Procedure

5.1.   Preparation of the sample

Crush the sample until it is fine enough for all of it to pass through a 0,5 mm round-meshed sieve.

5.2.   Determination of the total optical rotation (P or S) (see observation point 7.1)

Weigh 2,5 g of the crushed sample to the nearest mg and place in a 100 ml graduated flask. Add 25 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.2), shake to obtain even distribution of the test sample and add a further 25 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.2). Immerse the flask in a boiling water bath shaking vigorously and steadily for the first three minutes to prevent the formation of agglomerates. The quantity of water in the water bath must be sufficient for the bath to remain at boiling point when the flask is introduced into it. The flask must not be taken out of the bath whilst being shaken. After exactly 15 minutes, remove from the bath, add 30 ml of cold water and cool immediately to 20 °C.

Add 5 ml of Carrez solution I (point 3.3) and shake for approximately 30 seconds. Then add 5 ml of Carrez solution II (point 3.4) and shake again for approximately 30 seconds. Make up to volume with water, mix and filter. If the filtrate is not perfectly clear (which is rare), repeat the determination using a larger quantity of Carrez solutions I and II, for example 10 ml.

Measure the optical rotation of the solution in a 200 mm tube with the polarimeter or saccharimeter.

5.3.   Determination of the optical rotation (P' or S') of substances soluble in 40 % ethanol

Weigh 5 g of the sample to the nearest mg, place in a 100 ml graduated flask and add about 80 ml of ethanol (point 3.5) (see observation point 7.2). Leave the flask to stand for 1 hour at room temperature; during this time, shake vigorously on six occasions so that the test sample is thoroughly mixed with the ethanol. Make up to volume with ethanol (point 3.5), mix and filter.

Pipette 50 ml of the filtrate (corresponds to 2,5 g of the sample) into a 250 ml erlenmeyer flask, add 2,1 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.1) and shake vigorously. Fit a reflux condenser to the erlenmeyer flask and immerse the latter in a boiling water bath. After exactly 15 minutes, remove the erlenmeyer flask from the bath, transfer the contents to a 100 ml graduated flask, rinsing with a little cold water, and cool to 20 °C.

Clarify using Carrez solutions I (point 3.3) and II (point 3.4), make up to volume with water, mix, filter and measure the optical rotation as indicated in point 5.2, second and third paragraphs.

6. Calculation of results

The starch content (%) is calculated as follows:

6.1.   Measurement by polarimeter

Image omitted; see official source

P = Total optical rotation in angle degrees
P' = Optical rotation in angle degrees of the substances soluble in 40 % (V/V) ethanol
Image omitted; see official source = Specific optical rotation of pure starch. The numerical values conventionally accepted for this factor are the following:
--- --- ---
+ 185,9° : rice starch
+ 185,7° : potato starch
+ 184,6° : maize starch
+ 182,7° : wheat starch
+ 181,5° : barley starch
+ 181,3° : oat starch
+ 184,0° : other types of starch and starch mixtures in compound feed.

6.2.   Measurement by saccharimeter

Image omitted; see official source

S = Total optical rotation in saccharimeter degrees
S' = Optical rotation in saccharimeter degrees of the substances soluble in 40 % (v/v) ethanol
N = weight (g) of saccharose in 100 ml of water yielding an optical rotation of 100 saccharimeter degrees when measured using a 200 mm tube 16,29 g for the French saccharimeters 26,00 g for the German saccharimeters 20,00 g for mixed saccharimeters.
Image omitted; see official source = Specific optical rotation of pure starch (see point 6.1).

6.3.   Repeatability

The difference between the results of two parallel determinations carried out on the same sample must not exceed 0,4 in absolute value for a starch content lower than 40 % and 1 % relative for starch contents equal to or greater than 40 %.

7. Observations

7.1. If the sample contains more than 6 % of carbonates, calculated in terms of calcium carbonate, they must be destroyed by treatment with an exactly appropriate quantity of dilute sulphuric acid before determination of the total optical rotation.
--- --- ---
7.2. In the case of products with a high lactose content, such as powdered milk serum or skimmed milk powder, proceed as follows after adding 80 ml of ethanol (point 3.5). Fit a reflux condenser to the flask and immerse the latter in a water bath at 50 °C for 30 minutes. Leave to cool and continue the analysis as indicated in point 5.3.
--- --- ---
7.3. The following feed materials, where they are present in significant amounts in feed, are known to give rise to interferences when determining the starch content by the polarimetric method and thereby incorrect results could be yielded: — (sugar) beet products such as (sugar)beet pulp, (sugar) beet molasses, (sugar) beet pulp – molassed, (sugar) beet vinasse, (beet) sugar, — citrus pulp, — linseed; linseed expeller; linseed extracted, — rape seed; rape seed expeller; rape seed extracted; rape seed hulls, — sunflower seed; sunflower seed extracted; sunflower seed, partially decorticated, extracted, — copra expeller; copra extracted, — potato pulp, — dehydrated yeast, — products rich in inulin (e.g. Chips and meal of Jerusalem artichokes), — greaves, — soybean products. In these cases the method of analysis as provided by Commission Regulation (EC) No 121/2008 34 can be applied. This method can also be used for feed containing less than 1 % starch.

L. DETERMINATION OF CRUDE ASH

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine the crude ash content of feed.

2. Principle

The sample is ashed at 550 °C; the residue is weighed.

3. Reagents

Ammonium nitrate, solution 20 % (w/v).

4. Apparatus

4.1. Hot-plate.
--- --- ---
4.2. Electric muffle-furnace with thermostat.
--- --- ---
4.3. Crucibles for ashing made of silica, porcelain or platinum either rectangular (approx. 60 × 40 × 25 mm) or circular (diameter: 60 to 75 mm, height: 20 to 40 mm).

5. Procedure

Weigh out to the nearest mg approximately 5 g of the sample (2,5 in the case of products which have a tendency to swell) and place in a crucible for ashing which has first been heated at 550 °C, cooled down and tared. Place the crucible on the hot-plate and heat gradually until the substance carbonises. Ash according to point 5.1 or 5.2.

5.1. Put the crucible into the calibrated muffle furnace set at 550 °C. Keep at this temperature until white, light grey or reddish ash is obtained which appears to be free from carbonaceous particles. Place the crucible in a desiccator, leave to cool and weigh immediately.
--- --- ---
5.2. Put the crucible into the calibrated muffle-furnace set at 550 °C. Ash for 3 hours. Place the crucible in a desiccator, leave to cool and weigh immediately. Ash again for 30 minutes to ensure that the weight of the ash remains constant (loss in weight between two successive weighings must be less than or equal to 1 mg).

6. Calculation of results

Calculate the weight of the residue by deducting the tare.

Express the result as a percentage of the sample.

7. Observations

7.1. The ash of substances which are difficult to ash must be subjected to an initial ashing of at least three hours, cooled and then a few drops of 20 % solution of ammonium nitrate or water added to it (carefully, to avoid dispersal of the ash or the formation of lumps). Continue calcining after drying in the oven. Repeat the operation as necessary until ashing is complete.
--- --- ---
7.2. In the case of substances resistant to the treatment described under point 7.1, proceed as follows: after ashing for three hours, place the ash in warm water and filter through a small, ash-free filter. Ash the filter and its contents in the original crucible. Place the filtrate in the cooled crucible, evaporate until dry, ash and weigh.
--- --- ---
7.3. In the case of oils and fats, weigh accurately a sample of 25 g in a suitably sized crucible. Carbonise by setting light to the substance with a strip of ash-free filter paper. After combustion, moisten with as little water as possible. Dry and ash as described under point 5.

M. DETERMINATION OF ASH WHICH IS INSOLUBLE IN HYDROCHLORIC ACID

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine the level in feed of mineral substances which are insoluble in hydrochloric acid. Two methods can be used, depending on the nature of the sample.

1.1. Method A: applicable to organic feed materials and to most compound feed;
--- --- ---
1.2. Method B: applicable to mineral compounds and mixtures and to compound feed, whose content in substances insoluble in hydrochloric acid, as determined by Method A, is greater than 1 %.

2. Principle

2.1. Method A: the sample is ashed, the ash boiled in hydrochloric acid and the insoluble residue filtered and weighed.
--- --- ---
2.2. Method B: the sample is treated with hydrochloric acid. The solution is filtered, the residue ashed and the ash thus obtained treated in accordance with Method A.

3. Reagents

3.1. Hydrochloric acid 3 mol/litre.
--- --- ---
3.2. Trichloroacetic acid, solution 20 % (w/v).
--- --- ---
3.3. Trichloroacetic acid, solution 1 % (w/v).

4. Apparatus

4.1. Hot plate.
--- --- ---
4.2. Electric muffle-furnace with thermostat.
--- --- ---
4.3. Crucibles for ashing made of silica, porcelain or platinum, either rectangular (approx. 60 × 40 × 25 mm) or circular (diameter: 60 to 75 mm, height: 20 to 40 mm).
--- --- ---
4.4. Ash free filters

5. Procedure

5.1.   Method A

Ash the sample using the method described for the determination of crude ash. Ash obtained from that analysis may also be used.

Place the ash in a 250 to 400 ml beaker using 75 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.1). Bring slowly to the boil and boil gently for fifteen minutes. Filter the warm solution through an ash-free filter paper and wash the residue with warm water until the acid reaction is no longer visible. Dry the filter containing the residue and ash in a tared crucible at a temperature of not less than 550 °C and not more than 700 °C. Cool in a desiccator and weigh.

5.2.   Method B

Weigh 5 g of the sample to the nearest mg and place in a 250 to 400 ml beaker. Add 25 ml of water and 25 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.1) successively, mix and wait for effervescence to cease. Add a further 50 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.1). Wait for any release of gas to cease then place the beaker in a boiling water bath and keep it there for thirty minutes or longer, if necessary, in order to hydrolyse thoroughly any starch which may be present. Filter while warm through an ash-free filter and wash the filter in 50 ml of warm water (see observation point 7). Place the filter containing the residue in a crucible for ashing, dry and ash at a temperature of not less than 550 °C and not more than 700 °C. Place the ash in a 250 to 400 ml beaker using 75 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.1); continue as described in the second subparagraph of point 5.1.

6. Calculation of results

Calculate the weight of the residue by deducting the tare. Express the result as a percentage of the sample.

7. Observation

If filtration proves difficult recommence the analysis, replacing the 50 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.1) by 50 ml of trichloroacetic acid, solution 20 % (w/v) (point 3.2) and washing the filter in a warm solution of 1 % trichloroacetic acid (point 3.3).

N. DETERMINATION OF TOTAL PHOSPHORUS

The total phosphorus is to be determined by

  • — the method of analysis provided for by EN 15510 Animal feeding stuffs: Methods of sampling and analysis – Determination of calcium, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, cobalt, molybdenum and lead by ICP-AES, or
  • — the method of analysis provided for by EN 15621 Animal feeding stuffs: Methods of sampling and analysis – Determination of calcium, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sulphur, iron, zinc, copper, manganese and cobalt after pressure digestion by ICP-AES, or
  • — the photometric method, as described hereafter.

PHOTOMETRIC METHOD

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine the content of total phosphorus in feed. It is particularly appropriate for the analysis of products low in phosphorus. In certain cases (product rich in phosphorus), a gravimetric method may be used.

2. Principle

The sample is mineralised, either by dry combustion (in the case of organic feed) or by acid digestion (in the case of mineral compounds and liquid feed), and placed in an acid solution. The solution is treated with molybdovanadate reagent. The optical density of the yellow solution thus formed is measured in a spectrophotometer at 430 nm.

3. Reagents

3.1. Calcium carbonate.
--- --- ---
3.2. Hydrochloric acid, ρ20 = 1,10 g/ml (approx 6 mol/litre).
--- --- ---
3.3. Nitric acid, ρ20 = 1,045 g/ml.
--- --- ---
3.4. Nitric acid, ρ20 = 1,38 to 1,42 g/ml.
--- --- ---
3.5. Sulphuric acid, ρ20 = 1,84 g/ml.
--- --- ---
3.6. Molybdovanadate reagent: mix 200 ml of ammonium heptamolybdate solution (point 3.6.1), 200 ml of ammonium monovanadate solution (point 3.6.2) and 134 ml of nitric acid (point 3.4) in a 1 litre graduated flask. Make up to volume with water.
--- --- ---
3.6.1. Ammonium heptamolybdate solution: dissolve in hot water 100 g of ammonium heptamolybdate (NH4) 6Mo7O24.4H2O. Add 10 ml of ammonia (density 0,91 g/ml) and make up to 1 litre with water.
--- --- ---
3.6.2. Ammonium monovanadate solution: dissolve 2,35 g of ammonium monovanadate NH4VO3 in 400 ml of hot water. Stirring constantly, slowly add 20 ml of dilute nitric acid (7 ml of HNO3 (point 3.4) + 13 ml of H2O and make up to 1 litre with water.
--- --- ---
3.7. Standard solution of 1 mg phosphorus per ml: dissolve 4,387 g of potassium dihydrogen phosphate KH2PO4 in water. Make up to 1 litre with water.

4. Apparatus

4.1. Silica, porcelain or platinum ashing crucibles.
--- --- ---
4.2. Electric muffle-furnace with thermostat set at 550 °C.
--- --- ---
4.3. 250 ml Kjeldahl flask.
--- --- ---
4.4. Graduated flasks and precision pipettes.
--- --- ---
4.5. Spectrophotometer.
--- --- ---
4.6. Test tubes about 16 mm in diameter, with stoppers graded to a diameter of 14,5 mm; capacity: 25 to 30 ml.

5. Procedure

5.1.   Preparation of the solution

According to the nature of the sample, prepare a solution as indicated in point 5.1.1 or 5.1.2.

5.1.1.   Usual procedure

Weigh 1 g or more of the sample to the nearest 1 mg. Place the test sample in a Kjeldahl flask, add 20 ml of sulphuric acid (point 3.5), shake to impregnate the substance completely with acid and to prevent it from sticking to the sides of the flask, heat and keep at boiling point for 10 minutes. Leave to cool slightly, add 2 ml of nitric acid (point 3.4), heat gently, leave to cool slightly, add a little more nitric acid (point 3.4) and bring back to boiling point. Repeat this procedure until a colourless solution is obtained. Cool, add a little water, decant the liquid into a 500 ml graduated flask, rinsing the Kjeldahl flask with hot water. Leave to cool, make up to volume with water, homogenise and filter.

5.1.2.   Samples containing organic substances and free from calcium and magnesium dihydrogen phosphates

Weigh about 2,5 g of the sample to the nearest 1 mg in an ashing crucible. Mix the test sample until completely merged with 1 g of calcium carbonate (point 3.1). Ash in the oven at 550 °C until white or grey ash is obtained (a little charcoal does not matter). Transfer the ash into a 250 ml beaker. Add 20 ml of water and hydrochloric acid (point 3.2) until effervescence ceases. Add a further 10 ml of hydrochloric acid (point 3.2). Place the beaker on a sand bath and evaporate until dry to make the silica insoluble. Redissolve the residue in 10 ml of nitric acid (point 3.3) and boil on the sand bath or hot plate for 5 minutes without evaporating until dry. Decant the liquid into a 500 ml graduated flask, rinsing the beaker several times with hot water. Leave to cool, make up to volume with water, homogenise and filter.

5.2.   Development of coloration and measurement of optical density

Dilute an aliquot part of the filtrate obtained by point 5.1.1 or 5.1.2 to obtain a phosphorus concentration of not more than 40 μg/ml. Place 10 ml of this solution in a test tube (point 4.6) and add 10 ml of molybdovanadate reagent (point 3.6). Homogenise and leave to stand for at least 10 minutes at 20 °C. Measure the optical density in a spectrophotometer at 430 nm against a solution obtained by adding 10 ml of the molybdovanadate reagent (point 3.6) to 10 ml of water.

5.3.   Calibration curve

From the standard solution (point 3.7) prepare solutions containing respectively 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 μg of phosphorus per ml. Take 10 ml of each of these solutions and add thereto 10 ml of molybdovanadate reagent (point 3.6). Homogenise and leave to stand for at least 10 minutes at 20 °C. Measure the optical density as indicated in point 5.2. Trace the calibration curve by plotting the optical densities against the corresponding quantities of phosphorus. For concentrations between 0 and 40 μg/ml, the curve will be linear.

6. Calculation of results

Determine the amount of phosphorus in the test sample by using the calibration curve.

Express the result as a percentage of the sample.

Repeatability

The difference between the results of two parallel determinations carried out on the same sample shall not exceed:

  • — 3 %, relative to the higher result, for phosphorus contents of less than 5 %,
  • — 0,15 % in absolute value, for phosphorus contents of 5 % or more.

O. DETERMINATION OF CHLORINE FROM CHLORIDES

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine the amount of chlorine in chlorides which are soluble in water, conventionally expressed as sodium chloride. It is applicable to all feed.

2. Principle

The chlorides are dissolved in water. If the product contains organic matter it is clarified. The solution is slightly acidified with nitric acid and the chlorides precipitated in the form of silver chloride by means of a solution of silver nitrate. The excess silver nitrate is titrated with a solution of ammonium thiocyanate, by Volhard’s method.

3. Reagents

3.1. Solution of ammonium thiocyanate 0,1 mol/litre.
--- --- ---
3.2. Solution of silver nitrate 0,1 mol/litre.
--- --- ---
3.3. Saturated solution of ammonium ferric sulphate (NH4)Fe(SO4)2.
--- --- ---
3.4. Nitric acid, density: 1,38 g/ml.
--- --- ---
3.5. Diethyl ether.
--- --- ---
3.6. Acetone.
--- --- ---
3.7. Carrez solution I: dissolve in water 21,9 g of zinc acetate, Zn (CH3COO)2·2H2O and 3 g of glacial acetic acid. Make up to 100 ml with water.
--- --- ---
3.8. Carrez solution II: dissolve in water 10,6 g of potassium ferrocyanide K4Fe(CN)6·3H2O. Make up to 100 ml with water.
--- --- ---
3.9. Active carbon, free from chlorides and not absorbing them.

4. Apparatus

Mixer (tumbler): approximately 35 to 40 rpm.

5. Procedure

5.1.   Preparation of the solution

According to the nature of the sample, prepare a solution as shown under point 5.1.1, 5.1.2 or 5.1.3.

At the same time carry out a blank test omitting the sample to be analysed.

5.1.1.   Samples free from organic matter

Weigh to the nearest mg a sample of not more than 10 g and containing not more than 3 g of chlorine in the form of chlorides. Place with 400 ml of water in a 500 ml volumetric flask at approximately 20 °C. Mix for thirty minutes in the tumbler, bring up to volume, homogenise and filter.

5.1.2.   Samples containing organic matter, excluding the products listed under point 5.1.3

Weigh approximately 5 g of the sample to the nearest mg and place with 1 g of active carbon in a 500 ml volumetric flask. Add 400 ml of water at approximately 20 °C and 5 ml of Carrez solution I (point 3.7), stir for 30 seconds then add 5 ml of Carrez solution II (point 3.8). Mix for thirty minutes in the tumbler, bring up to volume, homogenise and filter.

5.1.3.   Cooked feed, flax cakes and flour, products rich in flax flour and other products rich in mucilage or in colloidal substances (for example, dextrinated starch)

Prepare the solution as described under point 5.1.2 but do not filter. Decant (if necessary centrifuge), remove 100 ml of the supernatant liquid and transfer to a 200 ml measuring flask. Mix with acetone (point 3.6) and bring up to volume with this solvent, homogenise and filter.

5.2.   Titration

Using a pipette, transfer to an Erlenmeyer flask from 25 ml to 100 ml of the filtrate (according to the assumed chlorine content) obtained as described under point 5.1.1, 5.1.2 or 5.1.3. The aliquot portion must not contain more than 150 mg of chlorine (Cl). Dilute if necessary to not less than 50 ml with water, add 5 ml of nitric acid (point 3.4), 2 ml of saturated solution of ammonium ferric sulphate (point 3.3) and two drops of ammonium thiocyanate solution (point 3.1) transferred by means of a burette filled up to the zero mark. Using a burette, transfer the silver nitrate solution (point 3.2) in such a way that an excess of 5 ml is obtained. Add 5 ml of diethyl ether (point 3.5) and shake hard to coagulate the precipitate. Titrate the excess silver nitrate with the ammonium thiocyanate solution (point 3.1) until the reddish-brown tint has lasted for one minute.

6. Calculation of results

The amount of chlorine (X), expressed as % sodium chloride is calculated by using the following formula:

Image omitted; see official source

where:

V1 = ml of silver nitrate solution 0,1 mol/l added
V2 = ml of ammonium thiocyanate solution 0,1 mol/l used for titration
m = g of weight of the sample in the aliquot.

If the blank test indicates that silver nitrate solution 0,1 mol/l has been consumed deduct this value from the volume (V1 – V2).

7. Observations

7.1. Titration may also be carried out by potentiometry or amperometry.
--- --- ---
7.2. In the case of products which are very rich in oils and fats, first de-fat with diethyl ether or light petroleum.
--- --- ---
7.3. In the case of fish-meal, titration may be carried out by Mohr’s method.

’.

28

For the drying of cereals, flour, groats and meal, the oven must have a thermal capacity such that, when pre-set at 131 °C, it will return to that temperature in less than 45 minutes after the maximum number of test samples have been placed inside to dry simultaneously. Ventilation must be such that, when as many samples of common wheat as it can contain are dried for two hours, the results differ from those obtained after four hours of drying by less than 0,15 %.

29

For more details on the calculation, reference is made to EN ISO 6498– Animal Feedingstuffs – Guidelines for sample preparation.

30

N content can be determined in all feeds but conversion factor of 6,25 for the calculation of crude protein content might not be applicable for insect feed materials (lower conversion factor) and certain pet food and blood plasma proteins (higher conversion factor).

31

The method of analysis provided for by EN 17180 is referred to as an alternative method to be used for official control purposes for the determination of amino acids in feed containing more than 10 % of amino acids.

32

This method has not been validated through a collaborative trial for premixtures containing more than 10 % of feed additives. However, it is also applicable to these matrices with appropriate slight modifications provided that the method is then in-house validated. For additional information, consult https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/eurl/feed-additives/authorisation.

33

Where the oil or fat has to undergo subsequent quality tests, replace the fragments of pumice stone by glass beads.

34

Commission Regulation (EC) No 121/2008 of 11 February 2008 laying down the method of analysis for the determination of starch content in preparations of a kind used in animal feeding (CN code 2309 ) (OJ L 37, 12.2.2008, p. 3).

ANNEX IV

‘ANNEX IV

METHODS OF ANALYSIS TO CONTROL THE LEVEL OF AUTHORISED ADDITIVES IN FEED

A. DETERMINATION OF VITAMIN A

The vitamin A is to be determined by:

  • — the method of analysis provided for by EN 17547 Animal feeding stuffs: Methods of sampling and analysis – Determination of vitamin A, E and D 35 content – Method using solid phase extraction (SPE) clean-up and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), or
  • — by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) using a UV or a fluorescence detector, as described in the points 1 to 9 hereafter.

1. Purpose and scope

This method makes it possible to determine the level of vitamin A (retinol) in feed. Vitamin A includes all-trans-retinyl alcohol and its cis-isomers which are determined by this method. The content of vitamin A is expressed in International Units (IU) per kg. One IU corresponds to the activity of 0,300 μg all-trans-vitamin A alcohol or 0,344 μg all-trans-vitamin A acetate or 0,550 μg all-trans-vitamin A palmitate.

The limit of quantification is 2 000 IU vitamin A/kg.

2. Principle

The sample is hydrolysed with ethanolic potassium hydroxide solution and the vitamin A is extracted into light petroleum. The solvent is removed by evaporation and the residue is dissolved in methanol and, if necessary, diluted to the required concentration. The content of vitamin A is determined by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) using a UV or a fluorescence detector. The chromatographic parameters are chosen so that there is no separation between the all-trans- vitamin A alcohol and its cis isomers.

3. Reagents

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