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DEAR COLLEAGUES AND CLIENTS

13 May 2021

In this newsletter, we discuss if your method selection is fit-for-purpose.

We take a closer look at the processed meat labelling requirements, sesame seeds become the 9th priority allergen in the US and Fish fraud is in the spotlight, again.

We support and stand by to assist you and bring you peace of mind wherever your food endeavours may take you.

Regards,
The FACTS team

 

The puzzle of processed meat labelling requirements

We have previously listed the five – yes, five! – different regulations, specifications and standards that relate to the labelling of processed meats in South Africa.

Here we explore what each of these regulations cover, in a bit more detail. 

 

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DOWNLOAD OUR FREE INFOGRAPHICS NOW
Learn more and browse through our resource centre to discover and download resources that will help you along your food safety journey.
Discover the resource centre.

 

Sesame seed added to USA list of allergens

Recently, the United States passed the FASTER (Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education and Research) Act. One result is that sesame is now the 9th priority allergen in the US. Previously, sesame was often ‘hidden’ in foodstuffs, making it difficult for sesame-allergic individuals to make safe purchasing choices.
 
It is estimated that 85 million people in the US suffer from food allergies or intolerances, of which 32 million may suffer life-threatening reactions and 1.6 million are reported to be allergic to sesame.
 

Read more

NEED TO TEST FOR SESAME SEEDS IN YOUR PRODUCT?
We can assist to test and consult and your allergen management plan.
Email us at [email protected] or contact us through our website.

 

In the spotlight (again): Fish fraud

Food fraud in the fishery sector is a recurring issue worldwide. Since seafood is one of the most globally traded food commodities and the supply chains are often quite complex, it tends to be highly vulnerable to substitution and mislabelling.

The most recent studies and published records of food fraud incidents show a large number of fish and seafood products being mislabelled. In some cases, fish are labelled as different species from the same family. Other cases reveal species substitution with an endangered or vulnerable species. In addition to promoting unfair trade, misleading consumers and threatening efforts towards sustainability, a variety of public health risks have also been raised as a consequence.

For example, a study of fish species in Taiwan has demonstrated that the mislabelling of snapper as tilapia (for sashimi products) raises potential health concerns after microbiome profiling was performed. Seafood products are not always deliberately mislabelled. However, the huge majority of substitutions involve replacing higher-cost species with lower-cost species. This clearly indicates food fraud at play, rather than negligence.

 

Read more

Download latest Food Fraud Incidents Infographic

IS YOUR FISH SUPPLY WHAT THEY SAYS IT IS?
We offer animal and fish species identification testing which is done through DNA sequencing. If you suspect fraud or would like to confirm species identification, request a quote on our website or Contact us for more information.

 

Method selection for allergen detection

Selecting a laboratory against criteria such as whether or not it is accredited against internationally benchmarked standards (e.g. by SANAS, in South Africa) is an industry standard. For allergen detection, you should also consider how fit-for-purpose a method of detection is for your objectives, and the status of that method in the professional analytical community.
 

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VIEW OUR TESTING CATALOGUE
Click here and contact us today for your allergen testing quotation.

 

Events reminder

Remember to sign up for these upcoming events:

SABIO Webinar: Honey Fraud - A sticky illegal mess

We are official sponsors with team member Shannon Riva presenting on testing honey authenticity. 

Free webinar.

DATE
Thursday
May 20 2021

TIME
SAST/GMT+2
09h00-12h30

FAMS 4th Food Allergen Management Symposium

Dr. Karim Dhanani will be presenting on Allergen detection by LC-MS/MS in a routine laboratory - overcoming practical implementation challenges. 

Registration costs apply. 

DATE
Friday
May 21 2021

TIME
SAST/GMT+2
03:15am

AOAC Webinar: Allergens in food

We are official sponsors of this webinar and feature our lead Scientific Officer Dr Karim Dhanani as he touches on the Regulatory landscape, Allergen management & Analytical challenges. 

Free webinar.

DATE
Wednesday
May 26 2021

TIME
SAST/GMT+2
15h00-17h00

 

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