New certified reference material for general use in the determination of trace elements in the environment: Single cell protein

The way of certification of trace element contents in a sample of single cell protein (SCP) is presented together with the results of the homogeneity and stability studies, carried out on this sample (BCR 274). The elements As, Cd, Co, Cu, Mn, Pb, Se and Zn are certified using different spectrometric, electrochemical or activation techniques after a thorough sample treatment. The material is not only useful in SCP-analysis, but can also be applied for analytical background measurements and control or for the analysis of similar materials (e.g. sea food).