What is BS EN ISO 6579:2012

Introduction

BS EN ISO 6579:2012 is a professional technical standard that describes an internationally recognized method for the detection of Salmonella in food and animal feed products. This standard provides guidelines on the sampling, detection, and enumeration of Salmonella species to ensure the safety and quality of these products.

Sampling Procedures

The first step in detecting and identifying Salmonella in food and feed products is the sampling procedure. BS EN ISO 6579:2012 outlines specific guidelines for sample collection, including the number of samples to be collected, sampling techniques, and sample sizes. These procedures are crucial for obtaining representative samples that accurately reflect the potential presence of Salmonella in the product.

Laboratory Analysis

Once the samples have been collected, laboratory analysis is conducted to detect the presence of Salmonella. BS EN ISO 6579:2012 provides detailed instructions on the enrichment and selective isolation of Salmonella from the samples. This includes the use of specific media, incubation conditions, and biochemical tests to identify the presence of Salmonella in the samples. The standard also outlines methods for confirming the identity of isolated strains through serological and molecular techniques.

Enumeration and Reporting

In addition to detection, BS EN ISO 6579:2012 also provides guidelines for the enumeration of Salmonella. Enumeration involves counting the number of Salmonella cells present in a given sample. By quantifying the number of viable Salmonella cells, it is possible to assess the level of contamination and determine if the product meets acceptable safety standards. The standard also specifies the reporting requirements, including the format of the reports and the information that should be included.

BS EN ISO 6579:2012 plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and quality of food and animal feed products. By following the guidelines outlined in this technical standard, it is possible to detect, identify, and quantify the presence of Salmonella effectively. Implementing these procedures can help prevent foodborne illnesses and promote consumer confidence in the products they consume.