Glass foreign body and fragment analysis

Foreign bodies, objects, small fragments of glass, glass particles and other contaminants found in products are a serious issue at any point in the food and drink, pharmaceutical and cosmetics supply chains.

Through glass fragmentation analysis, we can identify whether the foreign glass object was introduced during the manufacturing, processing or filling stage, or potentially by the customer after purchase. And we can work with you to resolve the issue to potentially prevent it from happening again. 

Where an injury or complaint is involved, our expert witness service can provide a specialist report and testimony.

Our UKAS accredited foreign body and glass fragment analysis service is available at rapid turnaround, and results can be issued within 24 hours of receiving the sample.

To identify the likely source of a foreign body, we find evidence on objects using optical light microscopy, fractography and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, then analyse it on a scanning electron microscope. If a source is suspected, we undertake comparative analysis using analytical techniques including glass refractive index measurements and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry.

When undertaking analysis of glass fragments, we analyse surface features which identify manufacturing methods or subsequent handling, and the composition, colour, refractive index and density of the broken glass fragments. This enables us to identify, compare, confirm or rule-out potential sources of the foreign body.

We can analyse a vast range of glass foreign bodies. Typically, we are contracted to investigate or identify glass fragments or glass-like foreign bodies found within

• food, drink, beer and spirit products
• cosmetic, perfume and fragrance products
• sanitary products and nappies
• plastic fragments (not UKAS accredited)