Superfoods Quality Control & Assurance 2

Question 1

Which analytical method is most commonly used to verify the antioxidant capacity of superfood powders like acai or maqui berry?

Accepted Answer

ORAC assay

Answer

The ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) assay measures a superfood's ability to neutralize free radicals and is the industry standard for antioxidant verification.

Question 2

A batch of spirulina powder tests positive for microcystin contamination. What is the most likely source?

Accepted Answer

Co-cultivation with cyanobacteria producing the toxin

Answer

Microcystins are hepatotoxins produced by certain cyanobacteria that can contaminate spirulina cultures if growth conditions are not tightly controlled.

Question 3

What does a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for a superfood ingredient NOT typically include?

Accepted Answer

Consumer purchase history

Answer

A CoA documents analytical test results such as microbial counts, heavy metals, and physical attributes — it does not contain consumer data.

Question 4

Which moisture level is generally considered safe for long-term storage of dried superfood powders to prevent mold growth?

Accepted Answer

Below 10% water activity (aw < 0.60)

Answer

Keeping water activity below 0.60 inhibits mold and microbial proliferation, making it the critical threshold for shelf-stable superfood powders.

Question 5

A company claims its goji berries are 'USDA Certified Organic.' What third-party verification is required to make this claim legally in the US?

Accepted Answer

Certification by a USDA-accredited certifying agent

Answer

Under the National Organic Program, USDA-accredited certifying agents must inspect and certify operations before any product can bear the USDA Organic seal.

Superfoods Practice Test

Superfoods Practice Test

Superfoods Quality Control & Assurance 2