Snacks And Instant Mixes Testing – METS Laboratories
Snacks and instant mixes have become indispensable components of modern diets. From traditional namkeens and ready-to-cook dosa batters to noodle cups and masala mixes, these convenience foods are consumed by millions every day. At METS Laboratories, we understand the critical need for quality, safety, and compliance in this fast-growing category. Our specialized testing services help food manufacturers, processors, exporters, and retailers meet national and international standards for food safety, nutritional content, labelling, and shelf life.
METS Laboratories is ISO/IEC 17025: 2017 accredited, and our food testing division uses advanced analytical techniques to ensure that snacks and instant mix products meet the strictest regulatory and consumer expectations.
Why Snacks And Instant Mixes Testing In Food Is Important?
Snacks and instant mixes often contain multiple ingredients, additives, preservatives, and flavouring agents. Improper formulation, poor hygiene during manufacturing, or incorrect storage can lead to contamination, mislabelling, or loss of nutritional value. Testing is important because it:
• Ensures food safety by detecting microbial, chemical, or physical contaminants.
• Verifies label claims such as protein, fat, calorie content, and “no added sugar” or “gluten-free.”
• Supports compliance with FSSAI, AGMARK, BIS, FDA, Codex, and other global standards.
• Assesses shelf life and helps validate packaging efficiency.
• Protects consumer health and reinforces brand credibility.
In the highly competitive food industry, regular quality testing builds trust and minimizes the risk of product recalls or legal penalties.
What We Test?
• Microbiological: Total plate count, yeast & mold, E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria, Bacillus cereus.
• Chemical: Moisture, pH, acidity, peroxide value, salt content, aflatoxins, acrylamide, heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury), pesticide residues.
• Nutritional: Protein, carbohydrate, dietary fiber, fats (saturated, trans, cholesterol), vitamins, and minerals.
• Allergen screening: Gluten, milk protein, soy, peanuts, etc.
• Additives & preservatives: Benzoates, sorbates, synthetic colours.
• Sensory evaluation: Taste, aroma, appearance, texture.
• Namkeens and fried snacks (bhujia, sev, chips, etc.)
• Ready-to-eat snacks (samosa, spring rolls, popcorn, etc.)
• Instant mixes (idli/dosa batter, instant halwa, upma, soup mixes, etc.)
• Noodles, pasta, and rice premixes, etc.
• Bakery mixes (cake, brownie, bread premixes, etc.)
• Health and protein bars
• Masala and spice mixes
• AOAC, ISO, FSSAI, and BIS standardized methods
• Chromatography (HPLC, GC-MS)
• Spectroscopy (UV-Vis, ICP-MS, FTIR)
• Classical wet chemistry
• Rapid ELISA and lateral flow methods for allergens
What METS Laboratories Offers?
METS Laboratories offers a comprehensive suite of analytical and regulatory support services for snack and instant mix manufacturers:
• Complete Nutritional Label Testing: Macronutrients, micronutrients, compliance.
• Contaminant & Adulterant Screening: Pesticides, mycotoxins, heavy metals, plasticizers.
• Microbial Load Testing: To meet shelf life and hygiene standards.
• Shelf Life & Stability Studies: Real-time and accelerated shelf-life studies for FSSAI compliance.
• Allergen & Gluten-Free Testing: Verification for special dietary claims.
• Packaging Compatibility Testing: Migration studies for food-contact materials.
• Regulatory Label Validation: Front and back panel label verification as per FSSAI and other country-specific norms.
• Customized Test Plans: Based on product type, market destination, and risk assessment.
What We Ensure?
- Accuracy: Testing conducted with validated methods, calibrated instruments, and skilled analysts.
- Reliability: ISO/IEC 17025: 2017 accredited reports accepted by domestic and global regulatory bodies.
- Turnaround Time: Fast, efficient, and on-time reporting to meet your go-to-market deadlines.
- Confidentiality: Strict data protection and client confidentiality policies.
- End-to-End Service: From sampling, testing, interpretation, to regulatory guidance.
- Customer Support: Dedicated food testing consultants for project assistance and report clarifications.
Who It’s For?
Protect Consumers. Satisfy Authorities. Boost Market Confidence.
Food safety is not just a regulatory obligation—it’s a business imperative. By working with METS Laboratories:
• You protect consumers from foodborne illnesses and allergens.
• You satisfy national and international food authorities through compliant and verified reports.
• You enhance brand credibility, reduce risks, and enable faster time-to-market.
• You meet sustainability, traceability, and transparency goals—critical for modern consumers.
Certified, clean-label, and safety-assured products increase consumer loyalty, create market differentiation, and open doors to export opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should snack or instant mix products be tested?
Testing frequency depends on the risk level, shelf life, and regulatory requirements. Generally, testing is recommended per production batch or monthly/quarterly for routine surveillance.
Do you offer testing for FSSAI FoSCoS licensing?
Yes, we provide complete testing support and reports for FSSAI licensing, FoSCoS registration, and label approvals.
Can I send samples from outside India?
Yes, we accept international samples provided proper documentation, shipping regulations, and customs compliance are followed.
What is the turnaround time for testing?
Typical turnaround time ranges from 5 to 10 working days depending on the scope of testing. Urgent and express testing options are available.
Do you assist with corrective actions if results are non-compliant?
Absolutely. Our team provides consultation and root cause analysis to help rectify formulation or process issues.
Can you provide testing for export documentation and customs clearance?
Yes, we offer export certification testing and documentation for key markets including the EU, US, Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
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Food Additives & Preservatives Testing
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Fortified Food Testing
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Processed Food Nutrition Value Testing
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Nutraceuticals & Functional Foods Testing
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Residue Analysis
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Animal Food & Feeds Testing
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Bakery & Confectionery Products Testing
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Beverages (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic) Testing
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Canned & Processed Foods Testing
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Cereals, Pulses & Cereal Products Testing
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Coffee & Cocoa Products Testing
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Dioxin and Furans Testing
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Edible Colours & Flavors Testing
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Edible Oils & Fats Testing
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Edible Salts Testing
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Eggs & Egg Products Testing
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Essential Nutrients Including Vitamins Testing
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Fruit & Fruit Products Testing
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Gelatin And Other Gums Testing
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Herbs, Spices & Condiments Testing
