Overview
EN ISO 927:2009 (ISO 927:2009) - "Spices and condiments - Determination of extraneous matter and foreign matter content" - specifies a general visual procedure (magnification not exceeding 10×) for detecting macro filth in whole spices and dehydrated herbs and spices. Prepared by ISO/TC 34 and adopted by CEN, this standard describes how to examine laboratory samples to identify and quantify visible extraneous and foreign matter such as stems, stones, moulded seeds, insect fragments, excreta and whole insects.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Visual examination of whole spices and dehydrated herbs with up to 10× magnification for macro foreign/extraneous matter.
- Definitions: Clear distinction between macro foreign matter (not part of the plant) and macro extraneous matter (species waste belonging to the plant).
- Sampling: References ISO 948 for sampling procedures; laboratory sample must be composite and representative.
- Sample sizes: Guidance on laboratory and test portion sizes (examples include 250 g or 500 g depending on bulk density); saffron exception: 3 g sample.
- Apparatus: Basic equipment such as well-lit table, white sheets, spatulas, sample splitter (Jones sampler or riffle divider), precision balance (0.001 g readability), butcher’s knife and magnifying glass.
- Examination procedure: Spread sample on white sheet, separate extraneous/foreign matter, weigh or count items, and record observations.
- Nutmeg special procedure: Break 100 nutmegs longitudinally to inspect interior for insect damage or mould.
- Calculations: Mass fraction of extraneous and foreign matter expressed as percentage to one decimal place (formulas provided).
- Reporting: Test report must reference the method, present results, record optional/operating details, and fully identify the sample.
Applications and users
This standard is practical for:
- Quality control laboratories in the spice and herb industry
- Food safety and inspection authorities
- Import/export compliance verification
- Supplier acceptance testing and incoming goods inspection
- Research labs performing contamination or defect investigations
EN ISO 927:2009 helps organizations identify visible contamination, set acceptance criteria, support corrective actions, and provide traceable test reports for regulatory and commercial purposes.
Related standards and references
- ISO 948 - Sampling of spices and condiments (normative reference).
Additional industry references cited in the standard include ASTA cleanliness guidance, FDA macroanalytical procedures, and European Spice Association quality minima.
Keywords: EN ISO 927:2009, ISO 927:2009, spices and condiments, extraneous matter, foreign matter, macro filth, dehydrated herbs and spices, visual examination, sampling.