Food News

AGROLAB Dr. Verwey Expands Analytical Portfolio: PBDE Determination in Food

Verwey Laboratory

AGROLAB Dr. Verwey proudly announces the launch of a new analytical service for the determination of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) in food and feed, fully compliant with the latest EURL guidance for halogenated POPs (April 2022).

What are PBDEs and where do they come from?

PBDEs are a group of brominated flame retardants formerly used in plastics, textiles, and electronic equipment to reduce flammability. Over time, these persistent compounds have entered the environment through manufacturing processes, product degradation, and waste disposal. Because they are lipophilic and bioaccumulative, PBDEs can build up in the food chain and appear as residues in food and feed products.

Why do PBDE residues matter?

Even at very low concentrations, PBDEs may have endocrine-disrupting and neurotoxic effects. Their accumulation in animal-derived products such as meat, fish, milk, or eggs poses potential health risks to both consumers and livestock. Monitoring and controlling PBDE levels is therefore essential to ensure food and feed safety in compliance with European regulations on persistent organic pollutants (POPs).

How are PBDEs analysed?

At AGROLAB Dr. Verwey, PBDEs are analysed using state-of-the-art techniques. This method enables accurate quantification and identification of 18 PBDE congeners, determined both individually and as sum parameters (with and without BDE-209): BDE-17, BDE-28, BDE-47, BDE-49, BDE-66, BDE-71, BDE-75, BDE-77, BDE-85, BDE-99, BDE-100, BDE-119, BDE-138, BDE-153, BDE-154, BDE-183, BDE-190, BDE-209.
Analyses are performed in various food and feed matrices, including animal fats, fish, meat, dairy, and compound feeds.


Our validated method achieves an impressive limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 µg/kg, ensuring trace-level accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements.

 

 

YOUR PLUS: By introducing this advanced PBDE analysis, AGROLAB Dr. Verwey B.V. strengthens its position as a trusted partner in food and feed safety. Our clients benefit from:

  • Full compliance with up-to-date EURL methods
  • Reliable and reproducible trace-level detection
  • Broad matrix coverage and expert interpretation

With this service, we continue our commitment to quality, innovation, and regulatory excellence, helping our customers protect consumer health and maintain market confidence.

 

Author: Eric de Jager, Site Manager AGROLAB Dr. Verwey