Metrology for standardised moisture / water content measurements in plant-origin bulk materials in support of International and European food safety and trade

Moisture content in plant-origin bulk materials, such as grains and cereal products can significantly affect the quality and safety of the products, as too much moisture can lead to spoilage through mould growth and thus cause illness and food waste. Therefore, there is a metrological need for accurate and traceable measurement methods to determine moisture content, which will also support European initiatives such as the ‘Farm to Fork’ strategy and the EU’s circular economy action plan. However, standardised methods with certified reference materials (CRMs) to ensure SI-traceability will need to be developed and shared across the metrology community to support the transition towards more accurate moisture content measurements.

This project aims to develop a volumetric Karl-Fischer (v-KF) titration method to measure moisture content in plant-origin materials with target uncertainties of ±0.3 % absolute. This method will also be validated by comparing the measurements to the ISO 712 reference method. The performance and limitations of the v-KF titration method will be determined through extensive interlaboratory comparisons. Additionally, the project will develop at least one plant-origin matrix CRM and one grain-stimulant CRM for moisture/water content to ensure SI-traceability of moisture content measurements. CRMs for the calibration of moisture/water meters will also be developed and validated. The project will publish the newly developed measurement capabilities in a good practice guide. Overall, these developments will ensure high food safety and quality across Europe and support the United Nation’s sustainable development goal 2 ‘Zero Hunger’.