Meat and derivatives
Our Services for the Safety and Quality of Meat and Meat Products
In the food industry, the meat and meat product supply chain is among the most complex and highly regulated. Ensuring safety, quality, and compliance with hygiene standards is crucial not only to protect consumer health but also to maintain competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
In an ever-evolving landscape—shaped by increasingly stringent demands from both consumers and regulatory authorities—Lifeanalytics supports companies in the meat sector with a comprehensive and integrated offering of analyses, inspections, validations, and consultancy services. We have a deep understanding of the specific needs of this industry and are committed to providing technical and regulatory support at every stage, from product development to commercialization.
This journey requires strict adherence to European food safety and hygiene regulations, such as Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 and Regulation (EC) No 853/2004, the latter of which specifically applies to products of animal origin.
Why Meat Safety Is a Key Concern
Meat safety is a critical issue, both for public health and for the reputation of food companies.
Today’s consumers are more informed and discerning than ever before. They demand assurances about animal welfare, the origin of raw materials, and the transparency of the entire production process.
The presence of chemical contaminants, drug residues, and pathogenic microorganisms such as Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella poses a real threat—one that can only be managed through constant and targeted analytical controls. Investing in meat quality not only means reducing risks but also delivering a product that stands out for its safety, flavor, and nutritional value.
That’s why we adopt a cutting-edge, multidisciplinary approach that combines scientific expertise with the latest technological tools.
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Laboratory Testing for Meat and Meat Products
We offer a wide range of specialized analyses for raw, cooked, cured, smoked, processed, and ready-to-eat meat products. Our testing services cover all key parameters required to assess the safety, quality, and regulatory compliance of meat products.
We offer a comprehensive range of specialized analyses for meat and meat products. Our services include:
- Chemical-Physical Analyses: to determine physical and chemical characteristics (moisture, pH, salt, fat content, etc.) of meat products.
- Nutritional Analyses (Proximate Analysis): to define the nutritional label of meat products in compliance with Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 and international labeling standards, including those required for export.
- Microbiological Analyses – Food Safety Parameters: to detect the presence of pathogens and ensure hygienic safety.
- Microbiological Analyses – Compliance Profile, Spoilage Organisms, and Indicators: to assess the quality of meat products and monitor microbial spoilage.
- Heavy Metals Testing: to verify the absence of contamination by lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and other heavy metals in meat and derived products.
- Mycotoxin Testing: to detect any fungal toxins in raw materials and finished products.
- Drug Residue Testing: to assess the presence of antibiotic residues resulting from animal feeding practices.
- Dioxins and PCBs (both dioxin-like and non-dioxin-like) Analyses: to ensure compliance with regulatory limits on environmental contaminants.
- PAHs – Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Testing: to monitor contaminants resulting from smoking or cooking processes of meat products.
- Contaminant Testing (MOSH-MOAH, PFAS, Furfuryl Alcohol): to detect unwanted substances due to environmental, packaging, or process contamination.
- Allergen Testing (Reg. 1169 and Export Requirements): to prevent cross-contamination risks and support voluntary labeling claims.
- GMO Testing: to guarantee transparency and compliance with market requirements.
- Microplastic Analysis: to monitor the potential presence of microplastics in ingredients or packaging.
- Vitamin and Additive Analyses: to verify the accuracy of label claims regarding vitamin and additive content.
All analyses are conducted according to ISO/IEC 17025:2018 accredited protocols, ensuring maximum reliability, reproducibility, and regulatory compliance.
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Shelf Life and Stability of Meat Products
Shelf life is a critical factor for the marketing and sale of meat products. In our laboratories, we offer a range of services including:
- Shelf Life Testing: we assess how the product evolves over time, both in terms of microbiological safety and sensory quality.
- Stability Testing: we evaluate the preservation of key characteristics such as color, odor, flavor, and texture in meat products.
- Challenge Testing: we examine the growth or inhibition of specific microorganisms, such as Listeria monocytogenes, in ready-to-eat products.
All activities are supported by a detailed technical report, which can be used for regulatory purposes or during audits. These evaluations are often required during retail (GDO) audits or to demonstrate compliance with current good manufacturing practices (GMP).
Studying shelf life not only helps reduce food waste but also optimizes marketing timelines, ensuring maximum product safety up to the indicated consumption date.
Process Development and Validation in the Meat and Meat Products Sector
We support companies in the design and validation of production processes, focusing both on technological optimization and hygienic safety. Through simulations, testing, and real-world verifications, we help improve production efficiency and reduce food safety risks.
We assess critical points, optimize control measures, and contribute to standardizing critical production phases, ensuring each step is compliant with regulatory requirements and aligned with the industry's best practices.
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Sensory Analyses and Consumer Testing for Meat and Meat Products
To ensure the success of a product, it must be not only safe but also highly appreciated by consumers. That’s why we offer:
- Panel Testing with Trained Tasters: objective and repeatable evaluation of the sensory characteristics of meat products.
- Sensory Home Testing: assessments carried out by real consumers in home environments.
- Consumer Testing: quantitative and qualitative studies conducted on specific market targets.
- Market Research: to explore consumer preferences and support effective product positioning.
These activities provide essential insights to refine recipes, differentiate from competitors, and communicate effectively with the target market. Sensory analyses are critical tools for continuous improvement, connecting science, consumer perception, and market expectations.
Labeling, HACCP, and Quality Systems for the Meat Sector
In the meat and meat product sector, compliance with hygiene regulations and proper documentation management are crucial to ensure product safety, protect consumers, and access both national and international markets. From traceability to allergen management, from clear labeling to the validation of production processes, companies in this sector face a complex and constantly evolving regulatory landscape.
In this context, we support producers, processors, and packagers of fresh meat, cured meats, sausages, and meat preparations in complying with European regulations such as Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 and Regulation (EC) No 852/2004, as well as with international standards like BRC, IFS, and FSSC 22000.
Our services for the meat and meat products sector include:
- Labeling and Regulatory Consultancy
- Preparation of Customized HACCP Manuals
- Internal Audits for BRC, IFS, and FSSC 22000
- Second-Party Audits at Suppliers
- Development of EU Nutritional Tables Based on RDP Results
- Shelf Life Planning and Technical Reporting
- Assistance for ASL Inspections and Health Authorization under Regulation 852
- Technical Reports for Self-Monitoring System Verifications
- Implementation of Voluntary Hygiene and Sanitation Systems
- Support for Voluntary Certifications and CE Marking Authorization
- Support for Sample Submissions to IZS Laboratories
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Food Safety Plan and Meat Product Export: Requirements for International Markets
We provide assistance in the preparation of Food Safety Plans for U.S. exports, as well as for exports to other markets (e.g., Japan) where specific hygiene and documentation standards are required. We also offer support for international audits and certifications needed for exports outside the EU.
Why Choose Lifeanalytics for the Safety of Your Meat Supply Chain
Thanks to our widespread presence across the territory and ISO/IEC 17025:2018 accredited laboratories, we offer prompt, reliable services that are always updated to the latest regulatory standards. We work alongside companies of all sizes—from small artisanal businesses to large industries—to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.
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Lifeanalytics Food: Discover Our Full Range of Services for the Food Industry
Lifeanalytics Food offers a complete range of analytical, consulting, and training services to ensure the safety and quality not only of meat and meat products but also of dietetic foods, plant-based and vegan foods, dried fruits and nuts, dairy products, and much more.
Our chemical, microbiological, nutritional, and sensory analyses, along with our consulting and regulatory update services, help producers comply with current regulations, protect consumer health, and maintain market trust.
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