Pesticides in Animal Feed: Accreditation, Sampling, and Analytical Methods

Background: Residues and Regulation

Strict regulations apply to pesticide residues in the animal feed sector. These residues-originating from agricultural use of insecticides, herbicides and fungicides-can end up in feed ingredients such as grains, legumes, seeds, and by-products from the plant-based food industry. Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005 defines maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticides in feed materials. These limits are designed to protect both animal health and the broader food chain.

Regulations are even stricter for organic feed: a general limit of 0.01 mg/kg applies unless otherwise specified under Regulation (EU) 2018/848.

Sampling According to EU 2002/63/EC

TLR carries out sampling of animal feed ingredients in accordance with the official procedures of Directive 2002/63/EC. This directive outlines how to obtain representative samples from plant-based material batches. A sample must be composed of at least 10 incremental samples taken from different locations within a batch. The aim is to create a homogeneous and representative composite sample.

Sample transport and storage follow a strict protocol: samples are kept cool and dark and transported to the lab as quickly as possible to prevent pesticide degradation. TLR provides standardized sampling kits and logistics in line with ISO 17025 requirements.

Accreditation and Analytical Methods at TLR

TLR is ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited (RvA L059) for pesticide residue testing in animal feed and feed ingredients. The accredited methods are based on LC-MS/MS technology and include the following substances:

• Chlormequat and Mepiquat - growth regulators (NEN-EN 15055)
• DDAC and BAC - quaternary ammonium compounds
• Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) - from linseed or almond by-products
• Glyphosate - widely used herbicide
• Diquat and Paraquat - bipyridyl herbicides
• Polar pesticides - such as phosphonic acid, chlorate, perchlorate, glufosinate
• Mycotoxins - due to interactions with crop protection agents
• Residues of dithiocarbamates (CS₂)

These analyses use validated methods specifically adapted to feed matrices. TLR also offers testing for contamination with PAHs and PCBs-substances that may enter feed via pesticide formulations or storage conditions.

Result Reporting and Interpretation

Analytical results are benchmarked against applicable MRLs. Any deviations are reported in risk control units (e.g., mg/kg product) and include interpretative comments. If residues are detected, clients may request additional support-such as tracing origin, reviewing storage conditions, or verifying import documentation.

Chain Assurance and Traceability

TLR supports certified feed supply chains (GMP+, FAMI-QS, QS, VLOG) in ensuring feed safety. Accredited analyses can be fully integrated into chain assurance audits or in-house quality programmes. Digital sample registration and batch-based reporting guarantee traceability.

Summary

The presence of pesticide residues in animal feed materials requires continuous monitoring. With ISO 17025 accreditation and expertise in LC-MS/MS analysis, TLR offers end-to-end support-from sampling to interpretation. This contributes to feed safety, regulatory compliance, and international supply chain assurance in feed production.