Can anyone help how frequently should we verify net weight quantity of packaged beef product to comply with BRC requirements? NIST handbook 133 has detailed information but there is no frequency for small beef packers.
Hi Rali,
Simple question, not so simple answer. ![:smile:](https://www.ifsqn.com/forum/public/style_emoticons/default/smile.png)
Yr specific process is unstated but ideally one would like to achieve some form of SPC if feasible. The latter will depend on the type of process and factors such as below.
Just as an example -
2.18 If production is checked using random checks, how many samples must there be in the random check and how often must the random check be carried out?
The packer chooses the size and frequency of the random sample so long as he can demonstrate that the filling process is able to ensure effectively that the batches comply with the tolerances.
A number of factors, which may be taken into consideration in this, are:
the stability of the production and/or filling process
the type of product
the filling rate
the number of filler heads
control of the filling process
destructive or non-destructive sampling
mechanical limitations
degree of over-filling
reporting time
4.5.2 The measuring and sample methods
An employee of the packer must draw a sample of enough items of the running production on a regular basis. The content of each item in the sample is determined. Parts of this may be automated (for instance by using a checkweigher). The measuring instrument used is specified under the chapter "measuring instruments".
Sampling Frequency
The sampling frequency depends on the deviation of the filling process and the number of adjustments, but it should be at least once an hour and after adjustment. In certain situations (for instance bottle filling carousels that cannot be adjusted) a lower frequency might be possible.
A lot more detail/caveats in the source file attached.
The basic requirement is as above but you clearly need tolerances / some data to finalise the sampling. Logically one would oversample at the beginning of production if unknown level of control.
Welmec Guide - legal metrology.pdf 538.72KB
130 downloads
PS - I anticipate that BRC will expect you to achieve compliance with minimally the legal requirements and additionally the customer's requirements if more strict. IMEX (not Canada) the latter requirements are usually agreed contractual.
PPS - JFInterest I noticed this Canadian comment -
2. The control over production should be such that the individual packages are within allowable tolerances. No more than 2.5% of the lot may have a negative error larger than the tolerance.
http://www.competiti.../eng/01232.html