Cold Brew Coffee pH testing

Hello we are working with a process authority in order to have our cold brew coffee business begin filling cold brew extract into aluminum cans. We have been able to get through every hurdle presented. At this time our final hurdle is to produce real time samples for each of our 3 different SKUs. According to our process authority FDA is requiring 3,500 finished samples of each SKU. So about 10k total units. We are then required to complete the following ,visual/analytical testing, for each of the 10k samples:

Product samples (estimated 3,400 cans per product, 10,200 cans total) will be incubated  at ambient temperature (must be >23°C/73°F) for a minimum of 21 days. It is recommended that the temperature is monitored over this storage period.

Analytical Examination of Products- After the incubation period is complete, the product samples (estimated 3,400 cans per product SKU, 10,200 cans total) will undergo the following visual and analytical examination:

• Physical examination of cans for evidence of swelling or bloating
• Visual examination of can contents for product changes such as turbidity, coagulation, or gas formation
• pH testing of can contents All results will be recorded in MS Excel spreadsheets so that they can be reviewed

We are freaking out over the requirement to test pH of 10,200 total cans. Any input on how this can be achieved would be appreciated!!!

-Rudy

Hello Rudy,

you may consider sending samples out to a food/ chemical lab for pH analysis. Some labs can work with you and sample the cans for you. I Imagine that you would need to work with the lab for a procedure and smaller sampling details. The other option is to utilize an automated pH analyzer if you have enough funds to purchase one. On these automated devices you can load many samples and the machine will read them for you. However, this will require a degree of technical expertise. Another resort would be to purchase many pH meter units and train a few individuals to help you perform the pH measurements. The last option is to measure the pH of the samples over the course of a few days as your samples can be refrigerated for a few days after opening and sampling.

you can also rent lab equipment. It might be cheaper to rent multiple pH meters, and have everyone on board test X number of cans

This might be a good use of some highschool chemistry students!