Heavy Metals Food Testing

Analysis of heavy metals in food and water

Arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead are the main heavy metals that are closely monitored by food manufacturers and producers due to their toxicity. These heavy metals can end up in food for several reasons and heavy metals food testing is the only way to ensure that your products are within normal ranges and meet regulatory requirements.

Regulatory Status in the U.S.

The U.S. FDA has set a limited number of action levels for heavy metals in food products. Action levels have been set for arsenic in apple juice and rice cereals for infants, as well as for lead in candy likely to be consumed frequently by small children. Additionally, action levels have been set for cadmium and lead in pottery ceramics and silver-plated hollowware. The FDA has also taken action and refused entry of certain imports into the U.S. due to heavy metals. These food products include:

• Bottled Water- Arsenic
• Dietary Supplements- Arsenic, Cadmium, Mercury, and/or Lead
• Ceramicware- Cadmium and/or Lead
• Preserved Duck Eggs- Lead
• Dried Fruits- Lead
• Turmeric- Lead
• Mandarin Orange Float Drink- Lead
• Candy- Lead
• Chili Containing Granular Seasonings/Snack Foods- Lead

Prop 65

California's Proposition 65 covers all food products. More details on Prop 65 can be found on AGQ Lab USA's Prop 65 page.

Heavy Metals Food Testing with AGQ Labs?

Our heavy metals food testing services include access to AGQ Labs' knowledgeable food safety team who are experts in the different heavy metal regulations around the U.S. and the world. Our heavy metal analysis service has a standard 3-5 day turnaround time that makes AGQ Labs' heavy metal testing service one of the fastest in the U.S.

AGQ Labs USA uses an ICP-MS to test water and food products and an ICP-OES to test soils, vegetation, and food additives for heavy metals. AGQ Labs USA's ICP-MS allows us to detect heavy metals at ultra low levels to help ensure you comply with Prop 65.