TPC, yeast & mold parameters for printed packaging

We are a printer of flexible food contact packaging and  just completed our SQF level 2 recertification audit. Some of our finishing equipment has cork wrap on the contact rollers (which is there for traction of the material as the equipment runs) and I need to close a nonconformance showing effectiveness of cleaning these surfaces, since they are considered porous. 

I need to send swabbing/samples to an outside lab for testing of TPC, mold & yeast. Can anyone recommend what acceptable parameters for test results would be? We have no customer requirements for micro testing and this is all to prove that our current cleaning methods (wiping cork surfaces with vinegar/IPA solution) is providing effective cleaning.

Thanks for any direction!

We are a printer of flexible food contact packaging and  just completed our SQF level 2 recertification audit. Some of our finishing equipment has cork wrap on the contact rollers (which is there for traction of the material as the equipment runs) and I need to close a nonconformance showing effectiveness of cleaning these surfaces, since they are considered porous. 

I need to send swabbing/samples to an outside lab for testing of TPC, mold & yeast. Can anyone recommend what acceptable parameters for test results would be? We have no customer requirements for micro testing and this is all to prove that our current cleaning methods (wiping cork surfaces with vinegar/IPA solution) is providing effective cleaning.

 

Thanks for any direction!

Hi nbobrowicz,

I assume this is for SQF

I deduce this is an extension of yr previous thread -

http://www.ifsqn.com...aging-printers/

Additionally to previous posts in above thread I offered some links in final post  which (notably the first one) contain possible answers (directly/via sub-links) to yr current OP.

Are these useful in present case  or perhaps require further clarification ?

i also noticed this rather nice-looking (from a non-Packaging person's POV) general thread on the Packaging Micro Scene -

http://www.ifsqn.com...ckaging-sector/

I suggest you contact Patrick Frontale at Packaging Consultants International. www.pcilabs.com (located in upstate NY)

We are rigid packaging printers and they do all of our micro testing. Very satisfied with their service and expertise!

Tamale