Halophenol dosage

Halophenols comprise a family of organohalogen compounds produced by the transformation of chlorinated or brominated phenols or anisoles. Some, such as 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (TCP) , 2,4,6-tribromoanisole (TBA) , and 2,3,4,6-tetrachloroanisole (TeCA) , are known for their impact on food quality and the environment. They can be generated during disinfection processes, through the microbial degradation of biocides, or migrate from materials and packaging. Their measurement in the laboratory is essential to detect any contamination and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Analytical methods for the determination of halophenols

Halophenol analysis relies on sensitive and selective chromatographic methods:

• GC-ECD (Gas Chromatography with Electron Capture Detection) : particularly suited to volatile and semi-volatile halogenated compounds.
• GC-MS (Gas Chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : allows for the precise identification and quantification of halophenols even at very low concentrations, thanks to the specificity of mass spectrometry.
• LC-MS (Liquid Chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : used in some cases for complex matrices or when the target compounds exhibit low volatility.

These techniques are consistent with the methods used for other regulated organic contaminants, such as bisphenols or adjuvants .

Industrial applications and safety issues

The measurement of halophenols is particularly important in:

• The agri-food industry : prevention of contaminations responsible for organoleptic alterations, such as the "moldy cork" smell linked to TBA or TeCA in beverages and packaged foods.
• The materials and packaging sector : quality control to prevent the migration of halophenols into food.
• The environment : monitoring of halophenolic residues in water, soil and effluents in order to prevent pollution risks.
• Plant production and derivatives : analysis of extracts, powders and residues that may contain traces of contaminants from preservation processes.

This type of control complements other regulatory services related to materials and packaging, such as the measurement of QM/QMS criteria .

Matrices analyzed for halophenols

YesWeLab's partner laboratories perform halophenol analysis on various matrices: process or wastewater, plant extracts, processed food products, packaging materials, and residues from industrial processes. Each matrix requires specific preparation (extraction, purification, derivatization) to ensure reliable detection of the targeted halophenols.

Regulatory and traceability issues

Halophenols are subject to strict monitoring due to their toxic properties and their impact on product quality. Their measurement allows for: verifying compliance with current regulations, identifying potential sources of contamination, securing the production and distribution chain, and preventing economic losses related to sensory alterations (particularly in wine, beer, and packaged beverages). This control approach is part of a traceability system, similar to that implemented for regulated compounds such as BADGE or BFDGE .

YesWeLab's expertise in halophenol analysis

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of over 200 partner laboratories in France and Europe, rigorously selected for their expertise in physicochemical analyses and their accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.). Our experts support manufacturers in choosing the most suitable method based on the matrix and expected concentrations. Thanks to our digital platform, managing your analyses is simplified: online quotes, real-time sample tracking, and rapid results delivery. Since 2020, numerous players in the agri-food, materials, and environmental sectors have trusted us to ensure the safety of their production.

Take action

Do you want to test for the presence of TCP, TBA, or TeCA in your food products, packaging, or environmental matrices? Entrust your samples to YesWeLab for reliable and compliant halophenol analysis. Request a quote online now for your analyses.