Alteca

Forensic Food Microscopy Short Course

NOTE: We are currently restructuring our courses and upgrading our teaching area/equipment. No courses will be scheduled until late 2010.

Our Forensic Food Microscopy short course covers all aspects of forensic food microscopy from basic stereomicroscopy techniques to advanced compound microscopy. A laboratory/reference workbook, a working reference sample collection of over 100 feed ingredients and a kit of hand tools will be provided.

Our Forensic Food Microscopy Short Course includes:

• an introduction to concepts and methods of forensic food microscopy;

• structures of plant, animal and microbial materials and their useful cellular and sub-cellular characteristics for identifications;

• methods to identify other natural and manufactured materials;

• transference of food residues and the determination of origin;

• common adulterants and contaminants in foods;

• sample processing and handling;

• collection and preservation of evidence;

• working with clients and detailed reporting;

• microchemical and biochemical spot tests; and

• a wide range of mineral, fiber, hair, pill, plastics and other identifications.

Differentiating between fraud, contrived samples and real food problems will be emphasized.

Forensic food microscopy is the subjective half of the quality assurance picture. It is the fastest and most practical way to identify foreign material and contaminants in ingredients and finished food products. No scientific instrument can take the place of a well trained microscopist. This “hands on” short course will provide a wealth of practical information and techniques to upgrade and enhance any quality assurance program and quality control lab.

Microscopes and all needed equipment will be provided.

Who should attend?

The course is intended to train Quality Assurance personnel who work in the food industry. We do not train individuals from other testing laboratories.

If you are interested in coming to our Forensic Food Microscopy Short Course, please e-mail us for additional information.