Food and Beverages News & Articles | Contract Laboratory's Outsource e-magazine

Food and Beverages

Scoville Heat Units: Understanding Chili Pepper Heat

By Trevor Henderson | Jan 24, 2023

The Scoville Scale and Scoville Heat Units have played a pivotal role in the culinary and food science industries for over a century.

the concept of chili pepper heat levels on the Scoville Scale, arranged in ascending order of spiciness against a gradient background

Food Products | Dessert Decoration Safety

By Editorial Team | Jan 22, 2023

Are those bakery cupcake glittery frosting and cake topper dessert decorations safe?

Toxicology Research and Testing

By Editorial Team | Jan 20, 2023

Toxicology research and testing are critical components of ensuring the safety and efficacy of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products. This discipline involves the study of the adverse effects of chemical substances on living organisms and the...

image focuses on the core activity of toxicology research, featuring one or two scientists engaged in examining a sample under a microscope or handling a test tube

Analysis of Capsaicinoids for Scoville Heating Unit (SHU)

By Trevor Henderson | Jan 19, 2023

Capsaicinoids are the compounds responsible for the spicy heat of chili peppers, and their concentration is measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This article explores the analysis of capsaicinoids, the methods used, and their significance in determining the pungency of...

image of hot peppers on a lab bench preparing for analysis of capsaicinoids

Pesticide Testing and Residue Limits in Food and Feed Products

By Trevor Henderson | Jan 18, 2023

Pesticide testing and the enforcement of residue limits are critical components of food safety, protecting consumers from the potential health risks associated with pesticide residues

an image showing crop spraying in an agricultural setting, with the molecular formulas of common pesticides subtly incorporated into the background. The image combines the realism of agricultural processes with the scientific elements of pesticide application

Polyherbal Supplement Testing: Ensuring Safety and Efficacy

By Trevor Henderson | Jan 16, 2023

Polyherbal supplements are increasingly popular for their potential health benefits, but ensuring their safety and efficacy requires comprehensive testing. This guide explains the importance of testing polyherbal supplements, the various methods used, and how these practices contribute to consumer confidence.