SQF 2.9.2.2 Quality Code - Proficiency Testing for Water Activity

Hello, we just had our SQF audit last week (Edition 9). One of findings was that we did not have proficiency testing for the water activity that we test at our facility (2.9.2.2-Quality Code). This is a new test we have added in the past year. How would I go about doing this proficiency testing so I can correct what we didn't do and continue to make sure its done in the past. We have 3 water activity units (Aqualab 3's) from METER Group. Any help would be greatly appreciated. (We have the training documentation showing all staff were trained on how to use the units)

for water activity or for testing for employees doing the water testing?

Honestly based on the clause noted, the employees...but lets assume both just to cover bases. 

This was the specific Quality NC on the report. 

Hello, 

We just had our SQF audit last week (Edition 9). One of findings was that we did not have proficiency testing for the water activity that we test at our facility (2.9.2.2-Quality Code). This is a new test we have added in the past year. How would I go about doing this proficiency testing so I can correct what we didn't do and continue to make sure its done in the past. We have 3 water activity units (Aqualab 3's) from METER Group. 

 

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

(We have the training documentation showing all staff were trained on how to use the units)

Hi E.Suttmiller,

I sugest you study the SQF Guidance document on "Proficiency Testing" available on their website.

We do testing on our water after the carbon block and UV light.  We do in house testing on pH, coliform, and Ecoli.  Then we send off same sample to accredited lab to iso standard.  We also do this for our sink water.  Maybe this will help you

Penny, this is water activity for our product.  Our water is not tested on site and is tested by a 3rd party state run lab. 

Penny, this is water activity for our product.  Our water is not tested on site and is tested by a 3rd party state run lab. 

From SQF's Guidance -

A proficiency test is a method used to demonstrate competency and validate a laboratory’s measurement process by comparing the in-house results to the results of a reference laboratory and/ or other participant laboratories

.

Thanks Charles. I think our plan based on what the auditor said and the guidance document is correct. This shouldn't be too hard to fix and adjust moving forward. 

As a representative from a proficiency testing provider (xxx)  - I would recommend finding a PT sample that allows you to test for water activity in a matrix that is close to the products you produce. I would be happy to discuss this with you, as this is a sample that is available in our catalog in a few different matrices.

If you need one out of round to complete corrective action sooner rather than later, there are some providers - like ours - that offer repeat samples that will allow you to verify the accuracy of your results at any time.

You can also search the EPTIS database for a PT program. This is a great resource for finding appropriate PT samples/rounds.

As a representative from a proficiency testing provider (xxx)  - I would recommend finding a PT sample that allows you to test for water activity in a matrix that is close to the products you produce. I would be happy to discuss this with you, as this is a sample that is available in our catalog in a few different matrices.

 

If you need one out of round to complete corrective action sooner rather than later, there are some providers - like ours - that offer repeat samples that will allow you to verify the accuracy of your results at any time.

 

You can also search the EPTIS database for a PT program. This is a great resource for finding appropriate PT samples/rounds.

i think this is a great option.   i have attached the guidance doc that others have referenced.  I believe there are a few ways to meet the requirement.