GB14891.4-1997
Hygienic standard for irradiated dried spice
辐照香辛料类卫生标准
GB 14891.4-1997 is a current mandatory Chinese national standard for Hygienic standard for irradiated dried spice. It appears in the Food compliance cluster with a product safety focus and has an implementation date of Jan 1, 1998.
Applicability depends on product scope, certification route, competent authority notices and transition rules. Requst for the translation or verify source before using this record in a compliance decision.
Compliance overview
Scope and applicability
This standard applies to dried spices that have been treated with gamma rays or electron beams for the purpose of sterilization, mold prevention, and improving hygienic quality. It covers products such as star anise, pepper, and five-spice powder. It is specifically designed for spices processed to enhance their microbiological safety and extend shelf life.
Technical requirements
This standard outlines the essential hygienic and technical requirements for irradiated dried spices. Firstly, it regulates the irradiation process, specifying that the average absorbed dose must not exceed a defined upper limit, and requires uniform dose distribution. The radiation sources must be either gamma rays or electron beams. Secondly, the standard sets strict sensory indicators, requiring the spices to maintain their normal color, odor, and taste without any off-flavors, insect damage, or foreign impurities. Thirdly, it defines physicochemical parameters, primarily focusing on maximum moisture content limits to ensure product stability. Finally, it establishes rigorous microbial limits. Compliance with these microbiological thresholds is mandatory to ensure consumer safety. The standard dictates maximum allowable counts for aerobic plate counts, coliforms, and molds, while pathogenic bacteria must be completely absent.
Testing methods
The evaluation of compliance involves specific testing methodologies. Moisture content is determined according to the methods specified in GB 5009.3. Microbiological parameters, including total plate counts, coliforms, molds, and pathogenic bacteria, are tested in accordance with the procedures outlined in GB 4789.1~4789.31. Manufacturers must verify these metrics through certified laboratory procedures to ensure full regulatory compliance.
FAQs
What products are regulated under GB 14891.4-1997?
This standard applies to dried spices (such as star anise and pepper powder) that have been treated with gamma rays or electron beams for the purpose of sterilization, mold prevention, and improving hygienic quality.
What is the maximum radiation dose allowed for dried spices under this standard?
The standard specifies that the irradiation source must be 60Co or 137Cs gamma rays, or electron beams generated by accelerators with energy below 10MeV. The average absorbed dose must not exceed 10kGy, and the dose uniformity ratio must be strictly controlled.
Are there specific packaging and labeling requirements for irradiated spices in China?
The standard mandates specific packaging requirements, including the use of food-grade plastic film as an inner liner and strictly sealed waterproof outer cartons. Additionally, the minimum outer packaging must display a unified irradiated food label and the text "irradiated spice".
The summary above provides a high-level overview of GB 14891.4-1997. To ensure complete compliance for your products entering the Chinese market, a precise and professional translation of the full technical specifications is essential. Purchase our high-quality English translation of GB 14891.4-1997 today to access all detailed parameters, tables, and testing procedures.
Applicability hints
- Type
- Health and hygiene
- CCS
- C53
- ICS
- 67.220.10
- Competent department
- National Health Commission
- Technical committee
- National Health Commission