the-BA : Identity check

We take labels for granted. When we use a substance from a container, we assume that it is what the label says it is; but who checks that the label matches the contents? Manufacturers themselves need to test both their raw materials and products, to check they are the correct substance. Quality control of pharmaceutical products is particularly vital, since taking the wrong drug (or wrong dose) won’t cure the patient, and could even be fatal.

Have you ever wondered how the identity of chemical products is checked?

You might like to …

• think about sampling techniques – in other words, the type and number of samples needed to confirm the label; find out the meaning of ‘representative sampling’, and when this is needed, rather than just taking a single sample
• use qualitative analysis to check that aspirin tablets really are aspirin; manufacturers perform identity checks on each batch of pharmaceuticals before it is sent for packaging
• use quantitative analysis to determine the mass of active ingredient in some tablets (for example, aspirin or ferrous sulfate BP); all pharmaceuticals must contain the correct dose of active drug, though this may be only a small percentage of the tablet.

Further Link:
Royal Society of Chemistry (pages 7-8)

	Home

	Clubs, CREST Awards and Fairs (5-19 yrs)

	CREST Awards (11-19 year olds)

	About CREST

	Project ideas

	Detective Work

	Is it satisfactory?

	Finding the proof

	Are You Getting Enough?

	How long will it keep?

	Keeping things in proportion

	Identity check

	Further Guidance