Analysis of MCPD, MCPD esters and glycidyl esters

2-MCPD, 3-MCPD and glycidyl esters can occur during the refining of fats and oils and are under strict regulatory control due to their potential health risks. Eurofins Food & Feed Testing supports you in ensuring the quality and safety of your products.

Key services

  • Quantification of 2-Monochloropropanediol (2-MCPD), 3-Monochloropropanediol (3-MCPD), and glycidyl fatty acid esters using state-of-the-art GC-MS methods
  • Analysis of free 2-MCPD and 3-MCPD, as well as dichloropropanols, in hydrolysed vegetable protein and soy sauce using GC-MS/MS
  • Direct “Zwagerman” method and indirect “DGF” method in accordance with current EU regulations and industry standards
  • Automated sample preparation and high measurement capacities
  • Low detection limits suitable for compliance with strict maximum levels
  • Matrix-specific method validation for complex products such as meat substitutes, flavourings, and lecithin
  • Routine monitoring and batch release testing for manufacturers and importers

Additional services

In addition to standard testing, Eurofins Food Testing UK offers:

  • Risk assessment support and interpretation of analytical results
  • Consulting on mitigation strategies in production processes
  • Trend monitoring and surveillance studies across product lines or supply chains

Legal framework and guidelines*

  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915 (on maximum levels for certain contaminants in food and repealing); requirements apply in the EU and continue to apply in Great Britain as retained (assimilated) law following EU Exit
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 231/2012 (laying down specifications for food additives); requirements apply in the EU and continue to apply in Great Britain as retained (assimilated) law following EU Exit

* Regulatory information is provided for general guidance only and may not reflect the most recent regulatory changes. Always consult official sources for up‑to‑date legislation. For market‑specific support, please contact your local Eurofins Food Testing UK laboratory. Our specialists offer tailored support through horizon scanning and food safety consultancy services.

Get in touch

For small batches, order our most routine testing from Eurofins Testing Direct.

Would you like to find out more about our testing solutions, access our competence centre services, or do you need tailored analytical or consultancy support?

Contact Eurofins Food Testing UK today to speak to our experts by submitting an enquiry form or calling +44 (0) 845 604 6740.

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