2.5.6 Product Sampling, Inspection and Analysis

Hi,

Can somebody provide me any sample procedure for product sampling and testing?

Thanks 

What kind of products?

Our product is Seasonings.But I want a general idea of the topic.

Thanks

In general this is a very hard topic to generalize because the degrees of testing and methods are so different for each industry. Here's my best try at explaining a general procedure for sampling and testing.

First off, you're going to want to identify what you're testing for. All industries are going to test for different organisms or quality limits. You need to set a frequency on how often and how much you're testing. Most of the time you need to get in touch with a lab to get specifications for different procedures for testing.

Here's an example of testing using your spices as the product (not sure what microorganisms are present?)

Ex. Say you produce 20,000lbs of product during a days production. The lab will tell you to test ~400grams for every 2,000lbs of product throughout the entire day according to their standards thus making 10 test "lots". They'll also tell you to randomly collect that sample from the 2000lbs (not just grabbing 400g in one handful but at least 5 different small samples throughout the "lot") Samples can be sent to the lab for testing and they'll usually provide you with a Certificate of Analysis stating that your testing has come back with negative results. A lot of times plants will hold product and not release until these results have been confirmed and then send the COA along with the shipment to customers.

Your best bet for finding exact procedures is to get in touch with an accredited lab in your area who does product sampling. They have many resources and written procedures to guide you in the right direction.