US FDA/CFSAN - Testing Methodologies and Sampling
May 17, 2005
Conclusions
- A great deal of information has been accumulated since 1999, some of which may help to improve the efficacy as well as the compliance of microbiological testing of sprouts.
- Sample pre-concentration by tangential flow filtration would allow 10L of spent irrigation water to be tested with a single test and achieve a detection limit of 1 - 10 CFU/10 L.
- Seed screening provides additional control to prevent sprout associated outbreaks. It also provides additional protection for consumers who produce sprouts at home.
- Testing sprouts/spent irrigation water appears to provide better detection than testing seeds.
- Many new detection methods have been developed. Evaluation of their efficacy in sprout system is critical.