Cereals and derivatives
Sustainability, safety, and traceability at the core of the cereal supply chain
Cereals such as wheat, corn, rice, oats, barley, and rye are truly central to our daily diet—for both humans and livestock. As essential ingredients in a wide range of processed foods—from flour to baked goods, pasta, and breakfast cereals—it is crucial to monitor them carefully and consistently to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
At Lifeanalytics, we support companies in the cereal sector with a comprehensive technical offering designed to manage every stage of the product’s lifecycle—from field to shelf. Thanks to our expertise both in the laboratory and in the field, we help businesses overcome challenges related to sustainability, competitiveness, and export requirements.
Cereal safety begins with comprehensive testing
Today, as consumers become more informed and health regulations grow stricter, every stage of the production process must be thoroughly verified.
Our laboratory services include comprehensive analyses designed to detect contaminants, pathogens, residues, and fraud, as well as to verify label accuracy and the integrity of raw materials.
Our main services include:
- Chemical-Physical Analyses: to determine moisture, water activity, ash content, and other physical parameters that impact cereal quality and shelf life.
- Nutritional Analyses: full proximate analysis (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, fibers), essential for labeling and product development.
- Microbiological Analyses: monitoring of hygiene parameters and detection of pathogens such as Salmonella, Listeria, Enterobacteriaceae, and yeasts/molds.
- Pesticide and Antibiotic Residue Testing: to assess raw material compliance with legal limits (MRLs) and ensure the safety of the final product.
- Heavy Metals and Environmental Contaminants: analysis of lead, cadmium, mercury, dioxins, PCBs, and PAHs.
- Mycotoxin Testing: control of aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, fumonisins, DON, and zearalenone.
- Allergens and GMOs: tests for the presence of gluten, soy, mustard, and other allergens, as well as GMO screening and quantification for labeling and traceability.
- Filth Test: detection of visible impurities and foreign matter (insects, plant fragments, sand, etc.).
- Additives, Vitamins, and Nutritional Integrity: accurate verification of declared composition and functional nutritional values.
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Validation, shelf life, and stability testing for cereals and cereal-based products
The preservation of a food product depends on several factors, including the type and method of packaging used, storage conditions, humidity, other environmental factors, and the presence of unsaturated compounds or emulsions.
That’s why we offer:
- Shelf Life Studies: assessment of the commercial shelf life of cereal-based products under standard or accelerated conditions.
- Stability Testing: simulations to evaluate the retention of organoleptic and chemical characteristics over time.
- Challenge Tests: targeted studies to understand the product’s resistance to specific microbiological contaminants.
- Process Validation: technical-scientific support to optimize heat treatments, hygiene measures, and critical control points in the production of cereals and their derivatives.
Sensory analysis and consumer perception in the cereal and cereal-based products sector
In the world of cereals and their derivatives, the perception of taste, color, crunchiness, and crispness can make the difference between a product that wins over consumers and one that remains on the shelves.
Through well-structured tests, we analyze how consumers react to these characteristics.
- Panel Testing with Trained Tasters: objective evaluation of aroma, texture, taste, and aftertaste.
- Sensory Home Testing: tests conducted by consumers in real-life settings.
- Consumer Testing and Market Research: valuable tools to define product positioning and predict consumer acceptance.
Regulatory support, labeling, and certifications for the cereal sector
In the cereals and derivatives sector, a structured documentation system, compliant labeling, and constant alignment with current regulations are strategic tools to access markets, protect brand reputation, and ensure quality and safety throughout the supply chain.
At Lifeanalytics, we offer consulting and auditing services to assist cereal sector companies with:
- Labeling and Compliance with Regulation 1169/2011
- Preparation and Review of HACCP Manuals
- Internal Audits for GFSI Standards (BRC, IFS, FSSC 22000)
- Second-Party Supplier Audits
- Development of EU Nutritional Tables Based on RDP Results
- Shelf Life Plans with Full Technical Reporting
- Assistance with Health Authorizations and ASL Inspections
- Support for Voluntary Certifications and Self-Monitoring Standards
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Export and international markets for cereals and cereal-based products
In the cereals and derivatives sector, analytical control is a key element for ensuring the quality of the finished product, meeting regulatory requirements, and enhancing the value of raw materials to remain competitive in the market.
Here’s how we can support you:
- Preparation of a Food Safety Plan for Export to the USA
- Compliance with Ministry of Health Requirements for Export to Japan
- Drafting of Technical Documentation and Reports Required for Non-EU Countries
The benefits of comprehensive control for cereals and derivatives include:
- Improvement of perceived quality
- Reduction in product recalls
- Prevention of contamination and non-compliance
- Better access to international markets
- Increased final customer loyalty
Why choose Lifeanalytics for cereal supply chain control
Choosing Lifeanalytics means relying on a multidisciplinary team, ISO/IEC 17025:2018 accredited laboratories, a national network of specialists, and deep expertise in cereals, flours, and their derivatives. We operate with promptness, flexibility, and continuous regulatory updates to provide concrete solutions for every sector need.
Lifeanalytics food: discover our full range of services for the food industry
Lifeanalytics Food offers a comprehensive range of analysis, consulting, and training services to ensure the safety and quality not only of cereals and cereal-based products but also of pasta and baked goods, meat and meat products, nuts, dried fruits, and much more.
Our chemical, microbiological, nutritional, and sensory analyses, combined with our consulting and regulatory update services, help producers comply with current regulations, protect consumer health, and maintain market trust.
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You might be interested in: Pastas and baked goods | Meat and derivatives | Nuts and dried fruits