Safety based on recognised standards

As a strong provider of high-quality spices, we have our own, state-of-the-art laboratory. It is run by AKO's quality management officers.

Here in the laboratory is where the goods inwards checks are carried out - always in accordance with the certified and constantly updated spice analysis plan. This plan complies with European food laws. This includes:

• Sampling plans based on DIN standards and recognised directives
• Visual inspections
• Sensory-guided testing
• Microbiological testing
• Chemico-physical testing
  

The testing methods are recognised and are constantly updated, validated and verified.
(DIN ISO EN 22000:2005)

Standard analyses for quality assurance

The standard analyses of our quality assurance also include, depending on the testing plan and their relevance, the following elements:

• Essential oil content
• Mycotoxins
• Bulk weight
• Drying loss
• Density
• Total bacterial count
• Staphylococcus aureus
• E. coli
• Coliform bacteria
• Enterobacteriaceae
• Yeasts / mould

The results of all investigations are always fed into the product approval process and documented in specifications. These specifications can be requested at any time. This also applies to GMO declarations and allergen lists.