Organotin compounds
Analysis of organotin compounds
At Eurofins Food & Feed Testing, we combine advanced analytical methods with regulatory expertise to help you identify and quantify organotin residues in raw materials and finished products.
Key services
- Targeted analysis of key organotin compounds such as tributyltin (TBT), dibutyltin (DBT), monobutyltin (MBT), and dioctyltin (DOT)
- Accredited testing methods for high sensitivity and specificity
- Matrix coverage: foodstuffs, packaging materials, environmental samples, and feed
- Risk-based screening for migration from packaging and contamination in processing
- Customised testing plans for routine monitoring or incident response
- Fast turnaround times and clear reporting formats
- Consulting and interpretation support for regulatory compliance and risk assessment
Additional services
In addition to the routine testing portfolio, we offer:
- Migration studies to assess organotin transfer from packaging into food
- Environmental monitoring for organotin residues in water, soil, and air
- Toxicological assessments and risk evaluation based on detected levels
- Support in product development and packaging selection to minimise contamination risks
- International sample logistics and multi-site coordination for global supply chains
Organotin compounds: Occurrence and potential risk
Organotin compounds can pose significant health risks if they migrate into food products from industrial applications and packaging materials. Tritbutyltin (TBT) is the most prominent organotin compound, previously being used as active substance in antifouling paints for marine vessels. TBT is highly toxic to aquatic organisms and exhibits endocrine-disrupting properties. Organotin compounds strongly adhere to solid matter and only partially degrade in nature. This leads, among other things, to enrichment in sediments and sewage sludge, meaning that past emissions could also result in long-term pollution of aquatic systems. The use of TBT-containing ship paints has been banned completely within the EU since January 2003. TBT is classified as a priority hazardous substance under the EU Water Framework Directive.
Get in touch
Would you like to find out more about our testing solutions, or do you need individual analytical support? Contact us today to get in touch with our experts.