Nutritional analysis

A nutrition declaration is mandatory for most prepacked foods and must reflect the actual composition of the product. Laboratory analysis gives you measured values for the label, a check on your recipe calculations and the evidence behind nutrition claims such as “source of protein” or “reduced fat”.

What we test

We determine the components of the mandatory nutrition declaration: fat, saturates, carbohydrate, sugars, protein and salt, and calculate the energy value using the conversion factors in Annex XIV to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011. Carbohydrate is obtained by calculation from the analytically determined moisture, protein, fat, ash and fibre. As the Regulation requires, salt is expressed as the salt equivalent of the sodium content (sodium × 2.5).

On request we can also determine optional items of the declaration: monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (from the fatty acid profile), dietary fibre and minerals. Results can be reported in the Annex XV format (per 100 g or 100 ml), ready to transfer to the label.

Regulatory framework

• Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on food information to consumers (Articles 30–35, Annexes XIV and XV); applicable since 13 December 2014, with the nutrition declaration mandatory since 13 December 2016
• Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims

How we work

For a representative result, the sample should match the product as sold. We recommend the test package that suits your product and issue a test report with both the measured and the calculated values. Accredited tests are marked as such in the report and are listed in the RENAR annex to accreditation certificate LI 871.