Sampling for Microbiological Analysis

Food and water are the most suitable environments for the growth and development of microorganisms that cause deterioration and poisoning and pathogenic microorganisms that cause disease. For this reason, it is possible to develop intoxication and infection as a result of contamination, especially in places where food and water are produced. In order to prevent food poisoning and infections, microbiological analyzes should be carried out before the products reach the consumer.

One of the most important points in the realization of microbiological analysis is the sampling phase. When the sampling step is not done properly, deviations can be seen in the analysis results.

The first point to be considered in sampling for microbiological testing processes in foods is to take the sample in a way that represents the whole lot from which it is produced.

Turkish Food Codex must be obtained by the food controller / inspector according to the communiqué no 2002/25. The food technician, on the other hand, can take samples from the production sites of the business in line with the instructions given by the food business.

Sufficient food samples should be taken without causing any contamination. The sample taken should be delivered to the laboratory with minimal changes in its microbiological condition, even without an increase or decrease in the microorganism load.

All products used in the sampling stages must be sterilized. Sample containers; It should be clean, sterile, covered, free from cracks and fractures, and moisture proof.

Samples; The type of the product, the size of the lot, the type of microorganism to be analyzed and the packaging must be planned. Samples must be transported in such a way that they are not damaged or damaged.

Sampling stages

• Determination of sample amount
• Making a sampling plan
• Taking the sample
• Bringing the sample to laboratory conditions
• Preparation of the sample for analysis.

Relevant standards;

• ISO 18593 Food Chain Microbiology - Horizontal Methods for Surface Sampling
• TS EN ISO 19458 Water Quality - Sampling for Microbiological Analysis
• TS ISO 5667-6 Water quality - Sampling - Part 6: Sampling from rivers and streams
• TS ISO 5667-4 Water quality - Sampling - Part 4: Sampling from Natural and Artificial Lakes
• TS ISO 5667-9 Water quality - Sampling - Part 9: Sampling from Sea Water

We provide sampling and analysis services in our laboratories with international accreditation in accordance with the relevant legal regulations and standards.