Development of reference material in a fish matrix for physicochemical proficiency testing

Abstract

For a sustainable growth and development of the fishing chain, it is necessary to develop solid scientific and technological bases, which help to guarantee the quality of this raw material. One of the most important ways to prove the quality of these products is through analytical determinations. In this context, the development of reference materials for proficiency tests in fish matrix contributes to the scientific, technological and quality improvement of this raw material. This work describes the production steps of a reference material for proficiency tests in fish matrix. The study covers the steps of material selection, preparation and development of short-term homogeneity and stability studies simulating transport conditions. Results were evaluate based on Horwitz standard deviation and standard deviation from the experience with previous rounds of proficiency test programs, providing comparisons between them. It was found that the batch of material produced was homogeneous and remained stable during the stability study, enabling its use in proficiency tests.