Mineral content analysis determines essential and trace elements — calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and others — in food, feed, and supplements. Testing is required for EU nutritional labeling and compliance with contaminant limits under EU Regulation 2023/915. Ovalab provides accredited mineral analysis using ICP-OES and ICP-MS.
Key Facts About Mineral Content Analysis
- EU NRVs for key minerals (Annex XIII, Regulation 1169/2011): Calcium 800 mg, Magnesium 375 mg, Iron 14 mg, Zinc 10 mg, Potassium 2,000 mg, Phosphorus 700 mg, Iodine 150 µg, Selenium 55 µg.
- Contaminants: EU Regulation 2023/915 sets maximum levels for lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and nickel in food.
- Methods: ICP-OES (per EN ISO 11885) for major/minor elements; ICP-MS for ultra-trace heavy metals (per EN 15763).
- Claims: “Source of” requires ≥ 15% NRV per 100 g; “high in” requires ≥ 30% NRV (Regulation 1924/2006).
- Sample preparation: Microwave-assisted acid digestion for complete mineralization of the organic matrix.
Testing Methods at Ovalab
Ovalab determines minerals using ICP-OES and ICP-MS per EN ISO 11885 and EN 15763. Samples undergo microwave-assisted acid digestion. Both nutritional minerals (Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, K, P) and toxic elements (Pb, Cd, As, Hg) are quantified. Under ISO/IEC 17025:2018 accreditation (ČIA, Certificate 537/2025).
Frequently Asked Questions
Which minerals can Ovalab test?
Calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, copper, manganese, selenium, iodine, chromium, molybdenum, plus toxic elements: lead, cadmium, arsenic, mercury, and nickel.
What is the difference between ICP-OES and ICP-MS?
ICP-OES determines major/minor elements at mg/kg levels. ICP-MS provides much higher sensitivity for trace elements at µg/kg levels — essential for heavy metal contaminant testing.
What EU regulations govern mineral contaminants in food?
EU Regulation 2023/915 sets maximum levels for lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and nickel in food, replacing Regulation (EC) 1881/2006.
Can mineral analysis support nutritional labeling?
Yes. Minerals meeting ≥ 15% NRV per 100 g may be voluntarily declared under EU Regulation 1169/2011. Ovalab’s accredited analysis provides verified data for label declarations.
How should samples be prepared for mineral analysis?
Provide samples in clean, contaminant-free containers (preferably plastic, not metal). At least 50–100 g recommended. Ovalab handles all digestion and preparation using microwave-assisted acid digestion.