Microbiological analysis and testing

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Microbiological analysis of food products is the use of biological, biochemical, molecular or chemical methods for the detection, identification or enumeration of microorganisms in a material (e.g. food, drink, environmental or clinical sample). It is often applied to disease causing and spoilage microorganisms.

End-product testing remains a vital part of any food manufacturing control strategy. In products in which microorganisms can survive and grow, routine microbiological analysis is important to confirm that manufacturing control mechanisms are effective. It is also necessary for the checking of raw material quality (e.g. to confirm that they are within specification), or for investigating customer complaints.

At Campden BRI, we undertake a wide range of tests covering pathogens, spoilage organisms, and indicator organisms (those that, although not a problem in themselves, might indicate that there is a potential or hidden problem in the production chain). We can also identify unknown microorganisms, and classify them to a specific strain, and offer advice on the latest rapid methods. This all takes place in our purpose built laboratory suite, which provides excellent separation of activities and the highest standard of laboratory practice.

If you have your own in-house microbiological testing facilities, our relaunched Campden Microbiology Proficiency Scheme will help you assess how good your laboratory analyses are.

Key services

COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2)

Environmental testing and prevention to help the food industry control SARS-CoV-2.

Microbiological analysis and testing

Covering pathogens, spoilage organisms, and indicator organisms

Microbiological specifications

Pre-set criteria that are used to verify HACCP and good practices.

Contamination incidents

Situation analysis and establish why it occurred.

Microbiological shelf-life

Product safety, retaining sensory, microbiological and chemical characteristics.

Challenge testing

A practical study to determine the behaviour of relevant organisms.

Predictive microbiology

Computer simulation of the growth of microorganisms.

Shelf-life testing

A complete service which can incorporate sensory and chemical analysis.

Microorganism identification

A key part of the management of food safety and quality

Rapid microbiological methods

Advice on most suitable methods for use.

Microbiological methods evaluation

Evaluating microbiological methods, validation and interpretation.

Microbiological risk assessment

Helping to guide clients through the complex evaluation process.

Laboratory design

Expertise in issues relating to microbiology laboratories.

Processing to remove microorganisms

Advice on different heating regimes.

Heat resistance

Determine whether the process you are using will be sufficient to achieve your aims.

Detection and control of foodborne viruses

Foodborne viruses are a safety challenge for a range of foods.

How good is your microbiology laboratory?

Our newly upgraded Proficiency Scheme.

Retailer supplementary audit scheme

Independent laboratory audit required by M&S/Tesco.