How to work out a representative number of samples to take for micro testing

Hi

Could anyone advise how to work out a representative number of samples to take for micro sample. What criteria is used to establish this.

Production runs at around 8T a week - so how many samples would we need to take to give a decent overview?

Thanks

Depends on what you're making: I could say, if you make packed product (e.g. in containers, bottles, etc.) 1 item from the beginning of a batch, 1 - from middle, and 1 from the end would be quite representative. For bulk products - I'm not sure, let's wait what other experts say.

using an AQL calculator is probably a great way to start--it allows you see try some variables to see what your sampling plan might look like before you start mostly importantly your FG weight (8 tonnes may sound like a lot, but if your processing beef or turkey or corn-really not all that much)

https://qualityinspe...aql-calculator/

There are lots of AQL calculators available, just provided link of one I have used

Hi

Could anyone advise how to work out a representative number of samples to take for micro sample. What criteria is used to establish this.

Production runs at around 8T a week - so how many samples would we need to take to give a decent overview?

Thanks

Hi charlotte,

It depends on what micro. species you wish to evaluate and the type of objective of yr evaluation.

Try this thread plus the sub-link in Post 6 -

https://www.ifsqn.co...ng/#entry103482

PS - should add that if the context is for a "small", in-house micro. lab probably most of the textbook recommended sampling schemes are logistically impossible on a routine basis. IMEX, the end result is something like a weekly batch of analyses performed on a rotating basis with some prioritisation for more sensitive items, eg RTE products, new raw materials, etc.

It is crab and lobster processing - ready to eat products. Listeria, Salmonella, Ecoli, Staph, C Bot (for vac pac), Shigella, Vibrio.

I'll take a look at the links sent.

Thansk for your help everyone

:)

It is crab and lobster processing - ready to eat products. Listeria, Salmonella, Ecoli, Staph, C Bot (for vac pac), Shigella, Vibrio.

I'll take a look at the links sent.

Thansk for your help everyone

:)

Hi charlotte,

That is a heavy (and likely expensive) menu. I deduce samples to be sent to ext. lab.

Note 4/7 are not pathogens, per se.

I can almost guarantee "Vibrio" will be positive. :smile: