8 replies to this topic

[clrmwebb4350]

We have a EM Program in which we swab  areas throughout the plant. With the COVID virus going on, there apparently is a shortage of testing supplies. Because of the shortage I cannot seem to a acquire any to do the fourth quarter test.  What are others doing about the shortage?  

[SQFconsultant]

We have not run into any shortage issues, you should check with another supplier or directly with a lab.

[clrmwebb4350]

We have not run into any shortage issues, you should check with another supplier or directly with a lab.

 Can you share suppliers that you use? I have tried multiple ones including the manufacturer Puritan and there  are long backorder lines for all their customers and suppliers. I use the Puritan pre-moistened swabs to swab for Listeria and salmonella. We are a food packaging company and supply the dairy industry with valves and over caps.

[Ryan M.]

Check Weber Scientific, Nelson Jameson, 3M.

 

Any third party lab that does environmental swab testing should have them as well.

 

We haven't run into any issues either.  You will likely have to contract another laboratory or use another type of swab.

[clrmwebb4350]

Check Weber Scientific, Nelson Jameson, 3M.

 

Any third party lab that does environmental swab testing should have them as well.

 

We haven't run into any issues either.  You will likely have to contract another laboratory or use another type of swab.

 

What kind of swabs do you use? 

[Ryan M.]

I don't know off-hand as we get them from a third-party laboratory.  Like I said, they are out there, you just need to start contacting places outside your current supplier.

 

What kind of swabs do you use? 

[clrmwebb4350]

I have contacted 5 different labs (way outside of my  normal lab) and the Puritan swabs are all on back order. I contacted Puritan direct and they told me because of COVID they are behind and that hospitals are the priority. They have no timeline for filling orders.

 

I am glad no one else is experiencing issues but I am. So I am looking at options. What kind of swabs do others use? I swab for Listeria and salmonella. I usually use the Puritan Pre-moistened foam tip swabs. I am open to suggestions!

[Ryan M.]

There are so many options out there.  No need to stick to a specific swab.  Call your current third-party lab and ask for their input.

 

Personally, I have a preference for the stick swab where you break the stick off after sampling and place the sponge in the back.  It is very convenient and easy to use, and does not require separate gloves as you do not handle the sponge at all.

 

I have contacted 5 different labs (way outside of my  normal lab) and the Puritan swabs are all on back order. I contacted Puritan direct and they told me because of COVID they are behind and that hospitals are the priority. They have no timeline for filling orders.

 

I am glad no one else is experiencing issues but I am. So I am looking at options. What kind of swabs do others use? I swab for Listeria and salmonella. I usually use the Puritan Pre-moistened foam tip swabs. I am open to suggestions!

[clrmwebb4350]

There are so many options out there.  No need to stick to a specific swab.  Call your current third-party lab and ask for their input.

 

Personally, I have a preference for the stick swab where you break the stick off after sampling and place the sponge in the back.  It is very convenient and easy to use, and does not require separate gloves as you do not handle the sponge at all.

Thank you! I had no idea there were so many.  I have some ordered so all should be good. Thank you for everyone's input :-)