CHEMISTRY
Chemical Contaminants in Food: Navigating MRL Compliance
Chemical Contaminants in Food: Learn how Mérieux NutriSciences identifies hidden threats, navigates 2026 MRL shifts, and ensures FSMA compliance.
Food Contaminant Testing
Chemical contaminants and residues in food are a rising global health concern. Detecting these hidden hazards—from pesticides to heavy metals—is essential for strong Quality Assurance and for meeting FSMA and international regulatory requirements.
Detecting Trace Contaminants Before They Reach the Market
At Mérieux NutriSciences, we provide rigorous food contaminant testing to ensure your products are free from unauthorized substances and chemical residues. Through our global network of ISO 17025-accredited laboratories, we use high-precision analytical tools to identify even the smallest traces of contamination. Our mission is to help you manage risk, prevent expensive recalls, and uphold your brand’s reputation for safety.
Antibiotics and Veterinary Drug Residues
We provide reliable testing for over 100 veterinary drugs to ensure animal-derived products are safe and compliant.
- Common Targets: Screening for hormones, beta-agonists, NSAIDs, and antibiotics.
- Global Export: Verification of drug residue levels to meet international trade requirements.
Heavy Metals
Toxic heavy metals are strictly regulated in many food categories, particularly baby food and supplements, due to their impact on human health.
- Core Metals: Routine testing for Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury.
- High Sensitivity: We use ICP-MS to reach the most demanding detection limits.
- Comprehensive Suites: Analysis of inorganic tin, chromium, selenium, and other trace elements.
Mycotoxins
These chemical substances are produced by molds and can contaminate grains, nuts, and spices, posing significant safety risks.
- Key Analytes: Testing for Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, G2, M1), Ochratoxin A, Fumonisins, and Vomitoxin (DON).
- Precise Detection: Accurate measurement even in difficult matrices like coffee and dried fruit.
Pesticides
Our team ensures your products meet global regulatory standards for over 600 different pesticide compounds.
- Multi-Residue Screens: Efficient analysis for hundreds of compounds using GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS.
- Targeted Analysis: Specific testing for herbicides, fungicides, and plant growth regulators.
- Regulatory Compliance: Verification against USDA NOP, USP 561, and global Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs).
Process & Emerging Contaminants
We track new regulations to analyze chemical contaminants that enter food during manufacturing or from the environment.
- PFAS Analysis: Detection of "forever chemicals" in food, water, and packaging.
- Contact Materials: Testing for MOSH/MOAH, Bisphenol A, and Phthalates.
- Process Toxins: Analysis of Acrylamide, 3-MCPD, and Glycidyl Esters.
Chemistry Testing Resources
Sample Pick-Up
Arrange convenient and secure pickup of your samples through our fleet of couriers.
Sample Supplies
Supplies are available for sampling, packing, storing, and shipping your samples.
MyMXNS Portal
Manage your daily food safety system with our easy-to-use, reliable customer portal.
SPICES
Adulteration in Spices: Purity, Potency, and Chemistry
Detect adulteration in spices with expert testing. Mérieux NutriSciences uses HPLC and DNA analysis to ensure purity and potency in your supply chain.
DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS
Unlock the Secrets to Amazon Dietary Supplement Verification
Discover expert insights on navigating Amazon Dietary Supplement Verification with our industry panel.
Chemical Analysis and Contaminant FAQ
How does Mérieux NutriSciences ensure the accuracy of trace-level testing? Precision at the parts-per-billion (ppb) level requires more than just high-end equipment; it requires rigorous control. Our laboratories operate under a unified global quality system, utilizing high-resolution LC-MS/MS and ICP-MS to isolate and quantify specific molecules. By participating in frequent proficiency testing and maintaining strict ISO 17025 protocols, we ensure every data point is technically sound and legally defensible—providing you with the confidence needed to face any regulatory audit.
Can you help us navigate differing Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for export? Yes. Chemical regulations are a moving target, with over 1,200 annual updates worldwide. We don't just provide raw data; we help you compare your analytical results against the specific legal limits of your destination country through our Regulatory Update platform.
What types of samples (matrices) can you analyze? Chemical compounds behave differently depending on the substance they are in. We have validated extraction and testing methods for a vast range of complex matrices, including:
- Proteins & Produce: Meat, dairy, seafood, fruits, and vegetables.
- Dry Goods: Cereals, grains, nuts, and animal feed.
- Non-Food: Packaging and food contact materials.
How do I access my results and data trends? You can access your data 24/7 through MyMXNS, our secure portal. Beyond just downloading Certificates of Analysis (CoAs), the platform allows you to track sample status and monitor historical chemical trends to help identify recurring issues in your supply chain.