Through Eurofins Analytics France SAS, our Authenticity Competence Centre, we are able to offer authenticity testing using SNIF-NMR and IRMS profiling.
SNIF-NMR (Site-Specific Natural Isotope Fractionation – Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) measures hydrogen isotope ratios at specific positions within molecules. These isotope patterns vary naturally depending on botanical origin, geographical region, and production method. This makes SNIF-NMR a powerful tool for
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Detecting sugar additions (e.g. chaptalisation in wine)
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Verifying declared geographical origin
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Differentiating between natural and synthetic components in complex products
SNIF-NMR is an official OIV-recognised method for wine origin verification and sugar addition detection; providing internationally accepted results that can be used to support compliance checks and regulatory investigations.
IRMS (Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry) provides complementary analysis by measuring the bulk isotope ratios of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and other elements. This supports
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Authenticating origin claims across a wide range of foods (e.g. honey, oils, fruit juices)
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Detecting substitution or dilution of premium ingredients
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Confirming botanical origin in plant-derived products
SNIF-NMR & IRMS food and beverage applications
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Wine and spirits; Identify chaptalisation and confirm declared geographical origin
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Honey; Authenticate source and detect adulteration with exogenous sugars
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Oils and other products; Verify botanical origin and detect fraudulent blends
Advantages of using Eurofins’ methods
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High specificity; SNIF-NMR pinpoints isotope ratios at specific molecular sites, allowing fine discrimination between authentic and adulterated products
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Regulatory acceptance; SNIF-NMR is OIV-recognised, with results accepted by regulatory bodies across the EU and internationally
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Complementary scope; Combining SNIF-NMR with IRMS provides a broader picture of authenticity, capturing both targeted and bulk isotope data
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Wide applicability; Suitable for liquids, solids, and processed products, from wine and spirits to honey and oils
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Robust results; Provides high-quality, scientifically validated data to support regulatory compliance, brand protection, and due diligence programmes
Advantages of using the Eurofins network
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Global expertise, local service
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Cutting-edge facilities; Advanced instrumentation maintained to the highest calibration and quality assurance standards
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Integrated services; Ability to combine isotope testing with chemical, microbiological, molecular, and sensory analysis for a complete authenticity package
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Regulatory alignment; Methods developed to reflect current international standards and industry best practice
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Scalable capacity; Ability to handle both routine surveillance and large investigative projects
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Proven track record; Decades of experience delivering trusted authenticity results
Contact us
Contact Eurofins Food Testing UK to access our full range of authenticity testing and consultancy services by submitting an enquiry or calling +44 (0)845 604 6740
