Overview
SIST EN 18198:2026 - Algae and Algae Products: Nitrogen Content Measurement and Protein Content Calculation for Micro- and Macroalgae is an international standard developed by SIST. It provides clear methodologies for determining nitrogen content in both microalgae and macroalgae, as well as their derived products. The document outlines the application of the Kjeldahl and Dumas methods for nitrogen analysis, procedures that are foundational for calculating protein content in algae products. Originally, these methods were validated using the algae species Nannochloropsis sp. and Palmaria palmata, but the approach applies broadly across other algae types.
Key Topics
- Nitrogen Determination Methods: Detailed procedures for the Kjeldahl method (based on acid digestion/distillation and titration) and the Dumas method (combustion and detection via thermal conductivity).
- Protein Content Calculation: Use of standardized nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors, in line with regulatory requirements for food and feed products.
- Sampling and Sample Preparation: Guidance on representative sampling and sample handling to maintain integrity for reliable nitrogen determination.
- Precision and Reporting: Requirements for method validation, repeatability, and reproducibility to ensure accurate and reliable data.
- Comparison of Methods: Insights into differences between Kjeldahl and Dumas techniques, highlighting their respective advantages and limitations.
- Calculation of Conversion Factors: Guidance for establishing matrix-specific nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors when more accurate protein content is required.
Applications
The standard is valuable for organizations and laboratories involved in:
- Food and Feed Production: Accurate measurement of protein content in algae and algae-derived ingredients is crucial for nutritional labeling, compliance, and quality control.
- Biotechnology and Bioeconomy Sectors: Algae serve as a sustainable resource for proteins, biopolymers, and other biomaterials. Reliable nitrogen and protein data support research, product development, and commercialization.
- Regulatory Compliance: The standard aligns with European requirements for food and feed labeling, supporting organizations in meeting regulatory obligations (e.g., EU Regulation No 1169/2011).
- Research and Development: Useful for academic and industrial research focusing on nutritional analysis, new algae species assessment, and method validation.
- Sustainability and Supply Chain Transparency: Standardized measurement methods enhance confidence among suppliers, manufacturers, and consumers regarding the consistency and quality of algae-based products.
Related Standards
- EN ISO 5983-1:2005: Animal feeding stuffs - Determination of nitrogen content and calculation of crude protein content (Kjeldahl method).
- EN ISO 16634-2:2016: Food products - Determination of total nitrogen content by combustion according to the Dumas principle and calculation of crude protein content.
- EN 17399: Algae and algae products - Vocabulary.
- EN 17605: Algae and algae products - Methods of sampling and analysis - Sample treatment.
- prEN 18197: Algae and algae products - Determination of the amino acid profile.
- EU Regulation No 1169/2011: Food information to consumers (nutrition labeling requirements).
- Commission Regulation (EC) No 152/2009: Feed official controls.
By following SIST EN 18198:2026, organizations can ensure precise, repeatable, and compliant measurement of nitrogen and protein in a wide range of algae products, fostering quality assurance and supporting the expanding applications of algae in food, feed, and biotechnology industries.
Keywords: algae standard, nitrogen measurement, protein calculation, Kjeldahl method, Dumas method, algae products, food labeling, feed compliance, protein content, laboratory standards.