Foreign Materials: Identification Using the Light Microscope

Rapid turnaround of foreign material evaluations can be done in your lab with a light microscope, allowing you to respond quickly to production and consumer issues. The light microscope is one of the most valuable tools for identifying food contaminants. In this course, you will explore:
•    Effective use of the light microscope and its capabilities
•    How to use the light microscope as a measurement tool
•    Use of polarized light microscopy to demonstrate crystallinity
•    Use of phase contrast microscopy to improve contrast in unstained samples
•    Simple staining protocols to improve contrast and aid in the identification of structures
In a lab setting, you will identify foreign matter such as plant material, rodent droppings, hair, crystals and fibre.

Contact: Guelph Food Technology Centre, (519) 821-1246; gftc@gftc.ca; www.gftc.ca