Automated Quality Control of Flavors and Fragrances€¦ · A flavors and fragrances company used the aforementioned, automated multipa- ... in the process of creating new world class

The flavor and fragrance industry produces many product ingredients,

such as perfumes and cosmetics, whose quality parameters need to be

monitored. Such a wide variety of samples, consisting of expensive raw

ingredients, can be a challenge for quality control labs and a stringent

analytical process is, therefore, essential.

Automated Quality Controlof Flavors and Fragrances

a variety of samples. For instance, an automated multiparameter system to determine the density, refractive index and color values is comprised of a METTLER TOLEDO DM40 density meter, an RX refractometry cell, a colorimeter CM5 (from KONICA MINOLTA) and a SC30 sample changer.

For very viscous materials (e.g. liquid honey) a typical sample run for density, refractive index and color can take more than 15 minutes. To keep resistance and sampling time to a minimum, the tub-ing between measuring devices should be kept as short as possible.

When analyzing volatile samples, the SC30 sample changer creates a seal against the vial, using over pressure to

The large variety of samples is the most challenging aspect of flavor and fragrance quality control. Several ana-lytical techniques available, such as GC, GC-MS or HPLC, are able to differentiate compounds within a complex mixture, however, such techniques require time and skilled operators. Many producers, therefore, measure a combination of physical values such as density, refractive index, color or pH for quality control pur-poses. These techniques are preferable due to their simplicity, speed, ruggedness and comparability to other analyses.

Benefits of automated multiparameter systemsMultiparameter systems determine all the aforementioned quality parameters in an automated and efficient way on

Cosmetics, Fragrances, Food Ingredients

Analytical solutions in the laboratory

11News

Table 1. Results of density, refractive index and color values using the automated multiparameter system.

CIELAB Color parameters(n=3) Density RI a b L GardnerMeanWater 0.99821 1.33300 -0.07 -0.03 100.49 NA

Sample 1 0.91547 1.47091 -2.59 7.29 102.34 1.2

Sample 2 1.00840 1.33559 -25.29 75.76 101.50 7.8

SDevWater 0.00001 0.00001 0.01 0.02 0.01 NA

Sample 1 0.00000 0.00001 0.02 0.03 0.01 0.0

Sample 2 0.00001 0.00001 0.04 0.03 0.04 0.0

2 METTLER TOLEDO Cosmetics, Fragrances, Food Ingredients 11

Publisher Mettler-Toledo GmbH Laboratory Division Im Langacher CH-8606 Greifensee, Switzerland

Production LAB Division MarketingGlobal MarCom Switzerlandwww.mt.com/lab-segmentnews

Subject to technical changes. © Mettler-Toledo GmbH 01/16 Printed in Switzerland.

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pump the sample. Non-volatile samples that are unaffected by ambient humidity can be placed in vials without caps.

Finally, and very importantly, the influ-ence of the sample variety on the correct choice of cleaning liquids must be con-sidered.

Repeatability with minimum sample amountA flavors and fragrances company used the aforementioned, automated multipa-rameter-system to determine the density, refractive index and color values of water and two other samples. Each parameter was measured three times per sample to allow for any inhomogeneity, such as sedimentation, phase separation or trapped air bubbles.The minimal sample amount required

for three repeat measurements is 6 mL and the solvent consumption for cleaning is approx. 10 mL per 20 sec-onds of rinse time. This automated system has a typical cycle time of around 5 minutes per sample for low to mid-viscosity samples, including cleaning time (8 minutes with a three-fold measurement). For more viscous samples (comparable to liquid honey)

the cycle time may be longer.Table 1 demonstrates the excellent re-peatability of the multiparameter mea-suring system. The standard deviation for density and refractive index for each sample is ≤ 0.00001. This highlights the superb cleaning efficiency of the automated system despite the different sample types.

Text: Fabrizio Steinbrunner DERE Application Specialist

www.mt.com/density

The automated multparameter system comprised of a DM40 density meter, an RX refractometry cell, a colorimeter CM5 and the SC30 sample changer.

3METTLER TOLEDO Cosmetics, Fragrances, Food Ingredients 11

pH measurement accuracy strongly depends on factors, such as the pH sen-sor, the calibration procedure and even user handling. The sensor, which is the core piece of the whole measurement system, decreases in performance level over time and this directly influences result accuracy. Furthermore, events, such as a new installation or setup change involve risks. It is, therefore, cru-cial to verify the performance of a pH system on a regular basis in order to maintain measurement accuracy.

Because pH result accuracy can vary over time, system performance

should be regularly verified. The METTLER TOLEDO VPac™ pH verification

kit eliminates all the risks of conventional performance verification.

pH Performance Verification for Reliable and Traceable Results

Performance verification on a professional basisThe VPac pH verification kit is an easy way to verify the performance of a pH measuring system. The kit contains two test solutions of unknown pH value (one acidic and one alkaline) together with instructions for preparing the pH system and measuring the solutions. The mea-sured values are entered onto an online verification page for immediate evalu-ation. Simply download a conformity certificate to confirm the suitability of

the tested pH system. If the system fails, non-conformity information containing clear trouble-shooting instructions is provided.

The VPac can be used for any pH system and provides easy and unbiased perfor-mance verification. Traceable solutions and a certificate (Figure 1) provide docu-mentation for your audit trail.

Text: Angela Stütz pH Lab Product Manager

www.mt.com/pH-vPac

pH VPac and certificate


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Balances in regulated environments need to be tested regularly to ensure they continue to comply with the specified regulations. However, even with careful protocols in place, many QA managers are nervous when an inspector calls. This is because a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspection can have significant consequences.

The demands of FDA equipment inspections

US cosmetics companies are directly subject to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). To ensure cos-metics are not adulterated or misbranded, companies may be subject to inspection

(Section 374 of the FD&C Act). Foreign companies that export to the US or are part of a US company’s supply chain must also be able to demonstrate that they meet the requirements of the Act. If irregularities are found, the FDA can restrict the sale or import of goods, costing companies millions.

In general, for companies to pass the equipment inspections balances must:

• Be specified, installed and qualified correctly against specification with appropriate documentation

• Be calibrated at installation and at defined intervals thereafter (with re-

Are You Ready to Weigh?Be Compliant in the Blink of an Eye

Researchers and quality assurance experts working in regulated industries must keep

their balances calibrated and tested to ensure accurate results and comply with regula-

tions. METTLER TOLEDO balances with StatusLight™ show operators if the balance is level,

calibrated and all routine tests are up to date.

A green status light indicates that the balance is ready for use.

A yellow status light displayed during balance test.

LevelControl™ detects when the balance is not level. The red status light indicates that the balance should not be used for weighing until the issue is resolved.

cords of results and any maintenance or service)

• Have appropriate, regularly scheduled testing protocols

• Operate in a scientifically sound manner

• Have proper logs that include all use and weight data.

Balances should not be used to measure cosmetic ingredients or products dur-ing periods when they cannot meet the above criteria. But how can an operator tell if a balance is ready for use? On METTLER TOLEDO analytical balances equipped with StatusLightTM, all they have to do is look.

Green Yellow Red


Red: If the StatusLightTM is red, stop. An issue that will affect weighing results must be handled prior to use.Ensuring that a balance is ready just prior to weighing can help avoid the kind of weighing or testing errors that bring results into question. StatusLightTM is one simple way cosmetics companies can help guarantee accurate weighing, steer clear of regulators and avoid fines and wasted product.

Text: Simon Taylor, Analytical Balances Product Manager

www.mt.com/xpe-analytical

White Paper: The Green Light for Weighing

Learn more about how StatusLight™ simplifies balance management in regulated laboratories.

Download the Whitepaper now } www.mt.com/weighing-green-light

Balance readiness indicator ensures valid results

When an operator is weighing a cos-metic product, such as a moisturizer, eye shadow, sunscreen, deodorant or any substance being used as a cosmetic com-ponent, StatusLightTM gives a quick visual indicator to determine balance readiness. Green: If the light is green, go ahead and weigh. The balance is level, calibrat-ed and all routine tests are up to date.Yellow: If the light is yellow, be care-ful. The balance may be due for a test or recalibration.


Flavor scientists use chemistry to modify the taste and olfactory sensation of

manufactured beverages. They also make prototype food and beverage products

that are tested prior to large scale production. Rainin pipettes play an important role

in the process of creating new world class wines for one North Californian producer.

Accurate Pipetting of Moleculesto Refine the Taste of Wine

Pipe

tting

Researchers at a well-known wine pro-ducer and distributor in Northern Cali-fornia are testing the performance of commercial enzyme preparations that could help winemakers lower the cost of wine fermentation, or increase favorable qualities in the final wine. For instance, pectinases break down the cell wall of plants, such as grapes, and allow more juice and color molecules to be liberated during the maceration of fruits. When pipetting such enzymes, the R&D team uses Rainin pipettes for higher accuracy and repeatability.

Dosing the flavorsIn the product development portion of their work, flavor chemists use Rainin pipettes to dose flavorant molecules into

wine or spirit product creations. Addi-tionally, flavor chemists will use organic synthesis to create molecules that provide the essence of desirable flavors (think ‘blueberry’, or ‘aged whiskey’). In order to dose flavor molecules into their prod-uct creations, they first take a general wine or spirit from large-scale produc-tion and dose in compounds that will have a great effect on the flavor profile of the beverage. In wine and spirits, flavor chemists will modulate the concentra-tion of molecules, such as turpenoids, norisoprenoids and phenolic molecules to make a battery of product prototypes that are then taste-tested. Depending on the palatability of the individual proto-types, a decision is made on which prod-ucts should enter into production.

Though adding flavor molecules during prototype development is necessary, ma-ny wineries do not add flavor compounds to their products. Instead, by varying fermentation conditions, the appropriate concentration of flavor molecules will be created during production. There-fore, flavor chemists communicate flavor chemical profiles to the quality control group at the winery or distillery so that they can determine whether the correct concentrations of flavor compounds have been reached.

Accuracy is critical Rainin pipettes are used to dose mol-ecules into wine in final concentra-tions ranging from parts-per-thousand to parts-per-trillion. Compared to glass

E4 XLS+ Single Channel

Pipet-Lite XLS+ Single Channel

Pipet-Lite XLS+ Multichannel


syringes used in the past, Rainin pipettes make liquid handling of flavor molecules easier and faster and are essential in achieving a much greater accuracy. In one instance, a chemist reported using a range of pipettes from a high volume of 10 mL to a low volume of 20 μL. He figures that the change to Rainin pi-pettes, has dramatically improved their accuracy, repeatability and above all ef-ficiency, allowing them to concentrate on what is important – creating great Californian wines.

Text: Richi Porecha Rainin Application Specialist

www.mt.com/rainin

Pipet-Lite XLS+ Multichannel

UV/V

IS S

pect

rosc

opy Speed Up Your UV/VIS Measurements

Accurate Results within Seconds

The new series of UV/VIS spectrophotometers from METTLER TOLEDO com-bines state-of-the-art optical technology with intuitive One Click™ user in-terface in a compact design to deliver accurate results within seconds. Itis the ideal partner for optimizing your spectroscopic workflows and datamanagement tasks to meet regulatory guidelines.

Increased efficiency

FastTrack™ technology enables instant instrument readiness and full spectrum scans within a second without jeopardizing accuracy.

Reliable results

FastTrack™ technology has been designed to meet your expectations regarding instrument performance. Be at ease that you get results you can trust.

Simple operation

Easy to learn and customizable to each user’s needs – the intuitive user interface guides you step by step and lets you start applications with only OneClick™.

Speed Up Your UV/VIS Measurements Accurate Results within Seconds

Plug & Play accessories

Select the right accessory for every application, from various sample holders to automation devices forincreased operation performance.

Methods library

Pre-defined METTLER TOLEDO methods are available and ready for use, or for adaptation to your specific application needs.

Automated performance verification

Compliance with regulations has never been easier. CertiRef™ automatically verifies all performance parameters and generates a comprehensive report.

Connectivity with LabX®

Combine all analytical instruments from METTLER TOLEDO with a single power-ful PC software, which allows full data and workflow management.

ABC of UV/VIS Spectroscopy Guide

A comprehensive 360° overview about UV/VIS theory, instrument technology and industry segment specific applica-tions. A valuable guide to enlighten your view on UV/VIS spectroscopy.

www.mt.com/sn-uvvis


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www.mt.com/balances

Always meet process tolerances The MinWeigh function puts a red warning onto the screen. The digits re-main red until the net sample weight lies above the pre-programmed mini-mum value.

Trusted Results at Your FingertipsWorry-free Weighing

With customers demanding short lead times and reliable delivery dates,

a trustworthy balance that is simple and easy to use is essential for ac-

curate results. The robust MS-TS balances incorporate advanced security

features to consistently deliver reliable results. An intuitive touchscreen

with graphical user interface and more than 10 built-in applications

makes daily weighing tasks simple even for untrained operators.

Extended balance lifetime The full die-cast aluminum hous-ing not only protects the weighing cell from environmental influences and impacts, but also remains resistant to harsh chemicals, including acetone.

Easy to operate display The 7” extra-large, color, TFT touch-screen display is operable with cotton, silicon and rubber gloves. An intuitive user interface and 18mm digits makes routine tasks more comfortable.


GC 402M1

M3M2

FMFC

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Start routine measurements quicklyThe unique OneClick™ function allows the user to easily start a predefined method directly from the color touch-screen display.

New Differential Scanning CalorimeterFor Unmatched Performance

The new DSC 3+ incorporates the most sensitive DSC sensor in the

market with 120 thermocouples allowing you to detect the weakest

thermal effects. DSC 3+ always uses the correct adjustment para-

meters, even if measurements are performed with different crucibles

or if the gas is switched during the measurement.

Programmable gas flow

The software-controlled mass flow gas controller measures and regulates the gas flow between 0 and 200 mL/min and automatically switches up to 4 gases.

Accessories increase versatility

Characterize UV curing systems thanks to DSC photocalorimetry. Visualize ther-mal effects with DSC microscopy.

www.mt.com/dsc

GC 302M1

M3M2

FMFC

C

www.mt.comFor more information

Mettler-Toledo GmbHLaboratory DivisionIm LangacherCH-8606 Greifensee, Switzerland

Local contact: www.mt.com/contacts

Effective Right Awaywith METTLER TOLEDO Service

METTLER TOLEDO Service

Take the stress-free route to instantly meet your productivity, quality and regulatory requirements. Rely on METTLER TOLEDO’s trained experts when it comes to professional installation and operator instructions.

METTLER TOLEDO Service offers competence and expertise in the following four areas:

Calibration and Certificates• Easily understandable and audit-proof

certificates

• Internationally approved procedures

• Selected according to your requirements

Installation Pacs • Professional installation and

configuration

• User familiarization

• Equipment qualification

User Training • Tailored to your needs

• Trained by the expert of the

manufacturer

Extended Care• Extended warranty

• Preventive maintenance

• Priority technical assistance

www.mt.com/service

Documents

Automated Quality Control of Flavors and Fragrances€¦ · A flavors and fragrances company used the aforementioned, automated multipa- ... in the process of creating new world class