Seed Companies, Growers, and Food & Beverage Manufacturers
SCS helps seed companies and growers maximize the nutritional output of crops through careful management of seed variety selection, farming methods, soil conditions, and harvesting practices. Using protocols approved by the American Organization of Analytical Chemists, SCS can evaluate your nutrition performance and document your nutrient density achievements.
To make an SCS Certified Nutrition Rich™ claim, growers and food manufacturers submit to testing based on a representative number of samples. The exact test depends on the type of nutrient or high-potency antioxidant being analyzed.
Essential Vitamins, Minerals, and Fiber
To be certified, an item: 1) must contain 100% of the daily recommended intake (DRI) per serving of Vitamin A (as beta carotene) or Vitamin C (2005 US Dietary Guidelines); or 2) must provide exceptional levels of vitamins and minerals as compared to USDA published levels (for instance, twice the Vitamin C).Added claims may be made if the product contains 100% or more of the USDA published levels of other vitamins, minerals, and fiber, at a sufficient nutrient density to be labeled a “good” source (10-19% DRI) or “high” source (20% or more DRI) of the nutrient per serving.
High-Potency Antioxidants
Fresh fruits and vegetables are often the best, and sometimes the only, source of high-potency antioxidants which are widely linked to important health benefits. SCS measures and certifies the actual levels of antioxidants, relative to the associated health benefits which begin at approximately 300mg per week. In addition, SCS can certify antioxidant levels in ingredients used in processed foods and beverages.
For more information on the SCS Certified Nutrition Rich and Certified Antioxidant Rich programs, contact the SCS Food and Agriculture division.