Keith Belk, PhD
Dr. Keith Belk is the Director of Eurofins’ Advanced Learning Institute and Professor and Holder of the Monfort Endowed Chair, Center for Meat Safety & Quality, Colorado State University (CSU), and as an Adjunct Professor in the Colorado School of Public Health. Previously, he served as Professor and Head of the Department of Animal Sciences at CSU. He earned B.S. and M.S. degrees from CSU, and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University. He currently serves in a consulting role as the Director of Education for Eurofins Rapid Microbiology Laboratories, LLC. Dr. Belk is also a member of the International Committee for the National Western Stock Show, the Board of Directors for the International Stockmen’s Educational Foundation, on the Academic Advisory Committee for the Meat Institute Protein PACT, and on the technical advisory committees for Sustainable Beef, JBS, Colorado Premium Foods, and Hawkins.
Below are resources from Dr. Keith Belk:
In this video, Eurofins Nutrition Analysis Center experts delve into the importance of using specialized test methods for chondroitin and glucosamine in complex pet food and treat matrices. We showcase the proprietary method developed by our scientists to overcome analytical challenges and ensure accurate results.
Low water activity foods (LWAFs) have historically been considered low-risk for microbiological hazards because their limited “free” (unbound) water in the formulation prevents bacterial growth. However, foodborne illness outbreaks revealed that pathogens can survive for extended periods in LWAFs, even in the absence of growth. Watch now to learn what is required to validate control measures to reduce microbial risks in LWAFs. Originally Aired on June 18, 2025.
Iodine is an essential trace element found in many food sources as well as the environment. AAFCO recognizes iodine as an essential nutrient for both dogs and cats at differing, species specific levels. This infographic explains explores considerations for iodine in pet food and reasons to test for it.
Hydrolyzed proteins play a crucial role in the pet food, animal nutrition, and feed industries, offering significant benefits in digestibility, allergen reduction, and bioavailability. This white paper explores the advantages of hydrolyzed proteins and their impact on product formulation.
The Pet Food Label Modernization (PFLM) initiative is reshaping industry standards, making dietary fiber a required metric. Learn how this change impacts pet food formulations, testing methods, and nutritional transparency.
Historically, testing for chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine has been done via HPLC-UV analysis via methods from AOAC or USP-NF monographs, which are not suitable for complex matrices such as pet food. Check out our infographic about an innovative solution developed specifically for pet foods and supplements.
Watch this webinar for a discussion on the background behind AAFCO’s recommended method and other commonly used methods, with a focus on which dietary fiber component each method quantifies, and scenarios where it is appropriate to use an alternate method. Original Air Date: April 16, 2025
April 17, 2025 - The Eurofins Nutrition Analysis Center in Des Moines, IA has successfully developed and implemented advanced methods specifically tailored for pet foods and pet supplements. Click to read about the new glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate method offerings.
In pets, as in humans, glucosamine (GlcN) has been used with chondroitin sulfate in nutraceuticals to support joint health and mobility. Historically, GlcN testing has been limited to pure materials and supplements. However, Eurofins Nutrition Analysis Center has recently developed a method for testing GlcN in a wide variety of matrices. Click to learn more.
Pet owners might turn to nutraceuticals that may support relief in some Osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms. One such nutraceutical is chondroitin sulfate. Explore new scientific developments happening at Eurofins in Des Moines, IA for quantifying chondroitin sulfate in complex matrices like pet food and treats.
