Sunflower meal is a valuable feed product, and its laboratory analysis is carried out to determine the quality and safety according to DSTU 4638:2006 “Sunflower meal. Technical conditions”.

The main indicators, which are determined during the laboratory analysis of sunflower meal:

  • Mass fraction of crude protein: It is determined by the Kjeldahl method, is one of the main indicators of nutritional value. According to DSTU, must be at least the set value (depending on the species).
  • Mass fraction of fat: It is determined by the extraction method (for example, by the Soxhlet method). Fat content affects the energy value of meal. According to DSTU, must be no more than the set value.
  • Mass fraction of moisture and volatile substances: It is determined by drying to a constant mass. Ensures proper storage of meal. According to DSTU, should be no more 12%.
  • Mass fraction of crude fiber: It is determined by a chemical method. Affects feed digestibility. According to DSTU, must be no more than the set value.
  • Mass fraction of ash: It is determined by burning the sample in a muffle furnace. It characterizes the content of mineral substances.
  • The presence of metallomagnetic impurities: It is determined using a magnet. Their presence is not allowed beyond the established norms.
  • Pest infestation: Visual inspection for the presence of live pests. Not allowed.
  • Toxic elements, mycotoxins, pesticides, radionuclides: They are controlled in accordance with the current veterinary and sanitary standards. They are determined using instrumental methods (Atomic-absorption spectrometry, chromatography etc).
  • Organoleptic indicators: Color, scent, appearance is determined visually and with the help of senses. Meal should have a characteristic smell without signs of mold and rot.

Methods of laboratory analysis:

Standardized methods are used to determine these indicators, described in DSTU and other normative documents. The main methods include:

  • Chemical methods: Kjeldahl, Soxhlet extraction, titrimetry, spectrophotometry.
  • Physico-chemical methods: Drying, burning.
  • Instrumental methods: Atomic absorption spectrometry, gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, radiometry.
  • Visual inspection.

The results of laboratory analysis are the basis for assessing the quality of sunflower meal, its compliance with standards and suitability for use in animal feed.