Making test results count

In the food industry, ensuring the safety and quality of products is of utmost importance. Laboratory testing plays a crucial role in this process, as it allows manufacturers, regulators, retailers and consumers to make informed decisions about the food they produce, distribute and consume.

However, the testing process can be daunting; from conceptualising a testing objective, all the way through to identifying samples that should be tested, establishing the test methods that are available, selecting a method that is appropriate, and finally, interpreting test results.

Result interpretation is a key component of the testing process, as it directly influences problem-solving and decision-making. Hence, it is crucial that interpretations are comprehensive, accurate and reliable. However, achieving this can be challenging, due to the large number of factors that need to be considered, such as how to benchmark results in the absence of a standard or regulation. This is where the benefit of having access to a range of skill sets becomes apparent.

By bringing together individuals with varied expertise, knowledge and perspectives, clear conclusions regarding results can be reached (for example, ‘Does this result highlight a quality and/or safety concern, or not?’), and role players can have confidence in taking appropriate, well-informed action.

These are some of the key factors that highlight the benefits of utilising different skill sets when interpreting test results:

Comprehensive understanding of analytical techniques

Modern food testing employs a wide array of analytical techniques, such as chromatography, spectroscopy, Polymerase Chain Reaction and immunoassay, among others. Knowledge of the strengths, limitations, sensitivities, specificities and appropriate applications of these techniques is required to determine the most suitable method for a specific food sample and testing objective. Selecting the correct test is crucial for obtaining reliable results that can be interpreted with confidence.

Insights into sample matrices

Food products are diverse and complex in composition; and if they are not properly understood, the success of a test can be impacted. Certain compounds in food ingredients can interact with reagents or detection systems, inhibit or enhance reactions, or mask target analytes. Furthermore, food processing methods can cause chemical changes in ingredients that may alter the target analyte, making it undetectable. Cross-reactivity is another issue, where compounds structurally similar to the target analyte trigger a positive response in the test. These factors can lead to false-positive or false-negative results. This is a major issue, as it affects result interpretation and can lead to incorrect decisions being made – consequently affecting product quality, safety and regulatory compliance, and potentially putting consumers at risk.

Regulatory compliance

The food industry is subject to a complex web of regulations, standards and guidance documents that have been put into place to ensure consumer safety and fair industry practices. Navigating these regulations and evaluating whether a test result is compliant can be a difficult task – even more so when regulations are continuously amended and replaced. A thorough understanding of the regulatory scope can streamline the compliance process and ensure that costly mistakes are avoided.

Multifaceted risk assessment

Different food products carry unique risks, depending on their ingredients, processing methods and storage conditions, and the amount and way in which they are consumed. It is important never to interpret test results in isolation, but to try and consider all relevant factors and come to a holistic conclusion regarding risk. Individuals equipped with expertise in different domains can work together to ensure that risks are effectively identified, prioritised and mitigated.

Cross-disciplinary collaboration

The food industry is a diverse field that involves professionals from various disciplines, such as food science, microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry, engineering, nutrition and regulatory affairs. Collaboration between different skill sets enhances the interpretation process significantly, by bringing unique perspectives and ensuring that no stone is left unturned. This fosters a comprehensive interpretation process, and ultimately leads to more well-rounded decision-making.

Innovation and problem-solving

In the ever-evolving food industry, innovation and creative problem-solving are crucial. Collaboration can bring fresh perspectives and provide the necessary skills to address new challenges that are bound to arise. It is crucial to stay up to date with emerging risks and technologies, to foster continuous improvement and keep ahead of the curve.

As published in SAAFoST’s FST magazine (South African Food Science and Technology), pages 10-11.

Other articles and resources you may be interested in:
Meaningful Allergen Quantitative Risk Assessment
South Africa’s Regulatory Framework
Testing methods: why one size does not fit all
Testing & Interpretation
Food Regulations & Standards
Allergen Management