Title: Understanding ISO 11290-2:2017: The Ultimate Guide for Food Industry Laboratories
ISO 11290-2:2017 is a crucial technical standard that helps ensure the safety and quality of food products. This standard was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and is widely recognized by laboratories and food industries around the world. Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen commonly found in raw and processed foods that can cause serious health risks, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and the elderly. By following the guidelines outlined in ISO 11290-2:2017, laboratories are able to accurately detect and enumerate Listeria monocytogenes, allowing food manufacturers to take appropriate measures to prevent contamination and ensure food safety.
Key Procedures Outlined in ISO 11290-2:2017:
ISO 11290-2:2017 provides guidelines and procedures for the detection and enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes. The standard outlines key procedures that laboratories should follow when performing these tasks. These procedures include:
Sampling: The first step in detecting Listeria monocytogenes is to collect a sample of the food product. This can be done by randomly selecting a portion of the product or by collecting a representative sample from the production line.
Preparing the sample: Once the sample has been collected, it should be prepared according to the guidelines outlined in ISO 11290-2:201This may involve cleaning the sample container, filtering the sample, or growing the bacteria on a selective media.
Counting the bacteria: After the sample has been prepared, it should be counted using a microscope or other counting device. The count should be made at a minimum of 100 organisms per sample.
Categorizing the bacteria: Based on the count, the bacteria should be classified as low, intermediate, or high risk. This allows food manufacturers to take appropriate measures to prevent contamination and ensure food safety.
Conclusion:
ISO 11290-2:2017 is an essential technical standard that provides guidelines and procedures for the detection and enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes. By following the guidelines outlined in this standard, laboratories are able to accurately detect and enumerate Listeria monocytogenes, allowing food manufacturers to take appropriate measures to prevent contamination and ensure food safety.