Identification of physical contaminants in food

The rapid and cost-effective identification of foreign bodies reported from food is an essential part of the investigation of contamination incidents. It is necessary in order to reassure the complainant and also to help prevent a recurrence of the problem. We have offered a service for the identification of glass fragments and other foreign bodies for many years, and have a wealth of experience to bring to each case – so if you are faced with this sort of issue, please get in touch.

An important part of this process is the gathering of initial data on the find, usually by the retail store to which the complainant takes their find. Full details of the precise circumstances of the discovery can often be crucial in the correct interpretation of the evidence.

Many types of foreign body turn up time and time again. A fragment of glass from the bottom corner of a jar is a case in point - these are often produced when someone is trying to scrape the last contents of a jar of jam or peanut butter using a spoon or knife, when a little excess pressure causes a small hole to be punched in the bottom corner of the jar. The fragments so produced have a very characteristic shape, but because the jar is empty, it is discarded without the consumer even being aware of the hole, and the glass fragment becomes associated with whatever food was being prepared that it fell onto, such as a slice of bread.

Contact: Kathryn Hope
+44(0)1386 842017
kathryn.hope@campdenbri.co.uk