Microtracers

• Precision: Microtracers can measure at much lower levels than traditional methods, such as the manganese protein method. The standard mixing ratio is 1:100,000 (10 grams of microtracers per 1,000 kg of product).
• Non-destructive: Test batches do not need to be destroyed, meaning they can be delivered as normal production batches.
• Validation of mixing times: Different colored microtracers can be added to the mixer at different times to validate mixing times.
• Properties: Microtracers are very fine particles with a high iron content, coated with a non-toxic food dye. The color is not visible in animal feed and is developed during analysis.
• Direct method: Microtracers are analyzed by counting particles.

Manganese Protein

• Traditional method: The manganese protein method is a traditional method that has long been used for homogeneity and carry-over studies.
• Destructive: Test batches often need to be destroyed after the study, meaning they cannot be delivered as normal production batches.
• Less precision: The manganese protein method measures at a higher level than microtracers, meaning the measurements are less precise.
• Indirect method: Manganese protein methods are based on determining the concentration of a substance.

• Microtracers: To determine homogeneity, samples are taken directly after the mixer and from each final feed (e.g., meal and/or pellets) at the end of the production line. For carry-over measurements, samples are taken from the second feed batch to which no microtracer has been added.
• Manganese Oxide: Samples of the corn mix are collected from the corn (and possibly wheat) used for the mix composition, at least six samples at the inflow to the press meal bunker, and at least six samples at the inflow to the final product silo.

Want to learn more about the methods and protocols for sampling? Check the GMP+ and Ovocom documents for detailed instructions and recommendations.

• GMP+ International offers the GMP+ Feed Certification scheme, which is widely used in the Netherlands. This scheme focuses on ensuring feed safety through HACCP principles and additional requirements for controlling residues and the homogeneity of critical additives and veterinary medicines.
• Ovocom manages the FCA (Feed Chain Alliance) standard, which is specifically developed for the feed sector in Belgium. This standard is internationally recognized and interchangeable with other feed safety standards but has a strong foundation and application in Belgium.

• Microtracers: The samples are analyzed for microtracer content by separating the magnetic particles with a rotating permanent magnetic tool, the rotary detector. The microtracers are collected on a filter mounted on a strong magnet. The filter is then demagnetized, and the microtracers are spread over a larger filter pre-wetted with a special color development fluid. The resulting color spots are counted using a software program.
• Manganese Protein: The samples are analyzed for manganese and protein content. Manganese is measured using ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry), while protein is determined using the Kjeldahl method. The Dumas method can also be used for protein determination.

You will receive a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and a manual report from us. You can compare the results with the established standards and guidelines, such as those of GMP+ or Ovocom, to determine whether homogeneity and carry-over are within acceptable limits.

Want to learn more? Check the GMP+ and Ovocom documents for detailed instructions and recommendations.