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Microbiological Testing/
EN ISO 11290-2 Enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes in Soft CheeseEN ISO 11290-2 Enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes in Soft Cheese: Eurolabs Laboratory Testing Service
Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium that can cause serious foodborne illnesses, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. Soft cheeses, being high-risk products for Listeria contamination, require regular testing to ensure their safety for consumption.
The European Standard EN ISO 11290-2:2017 specifies the method for the enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes in soft cheese. This standard is a revision of the previous edition and provides updated requirements for laboratory testing.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
In the European Union, food business operators are required to ensure that their products comply with EU legislation on food safety. Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005 sets out microbiological criteria for foods, including soft cheese. The regulation specifies that Listeria monocytogenes must not be detected in 25g of soft cheese.
International and National Standards
EN ISO 11290-2:2017 is an International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard that has been adopted by the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC). The standard provides a globally recognized method for enumerating Listeria monocytogenes in soft cheese.
In addition to EN ISO 11290-2:2017, other relevant standards include:
Standard Development Organizations
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is a global federation of national standards bodies that develop and publish international standards. The European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC) is responsible for developing and publishing European standards.
How Standards Evolve and Get Updated
Standards evolve over time to reflect changes in technology, regulations, and best practices. The revision process involves review of existing standards, identification of gaps or inconsistencies, and development of new requirements.
Standard Numbers and Scope
EN ISO 11290-2:2017 provides a method for the enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes in soft cheese. The standard is applicable to all types of soft cheese, including fresh, processed, and pasteurized products.
Industry-Specific Examples and Case Studies
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Why This Specific Test is Needed and Required
The presence of Listeria monocytogenes in soft cheese poses a significant risk to human health. Regular testing ensures that products meet EU microbiological criteria, protecting consumers from foodborne illnesses.
Business and Technical Reasons for Conducting EN ISO 11290-2 Enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes in Soft Cheese Testing
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Step-by-Step Explanation of How the Test is Conducted
1. Sampling: Soft cheese samples are collected from manufacturers or retailers.
2. Sample preparation: Samples are homogenized and diluted to a suitable concentration for testing.
3. Enrichment: Samples are enriched in a growth medium to promote the growth of Listeria monocytogenes.
4. Isolation: Listeria monocytogenes is isolated using selective agar plates.
5. Enumeration: The number of Listeria monocytogenes colonies is counted and expressed as colony-forming units per gram (CFU/g).
Testing Equipment and Instruments Used
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How Test Results are Documented and Reported
Test results are documented in a laboratory report, which includes:
Interpretation of Results
Results are interpreted based on EU legislation, which specifies that Listeria monocytogenes must not be detected in 25g of soft cheese.
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