Very effective for recovering a high percentage of microorganisms from large surface areas. 4. Adhesive Tape Technique
offer multi-page PDF previews that include the table of contents and normative references. ISO - International Organization for Standardization Key Updates in the 2018 Revision
: These consist of a plastic plate with a convex surface filled with agar medium. The plate is pressed directly onto the surface to be tested, and then incubated. This method is ideal for smooth, flat, non-porous surfaces and provides a direct, quantitative result in terms of colony‑forming units per unit area. However, contact plates are generally not appropriate for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes because the organism may not be reliably transferred from the surface to the agar. Very effective for recovering a high percentage of
If a sample is taken without a neutralizing agent, leftover sanitizers on the swab or sponge can inhibit microbial growth during incubation. This results in false-negative data, masking a potential contamination hazard. Common neutralizing broths specified in the standard include: Dey-Engley (D/E) Neutralizing Broth Letheen Broth Steps for Implementing an ISO 18593 Sampling Plan
Understanding the nuances of this document is crucial for food safety managers, laboratory auditors, and quality control professionals downloading or implementing the official protocol. Key Scope and Structural Framework However, contact plates are generally not appropriate for
The current version replaced the first edition (ISO 18593:2004). The 2018 revision introduced several significant enhancements, expanding the standard's utility and reflecting advancements in industry practices.
The standard consists of several key components, including: masking a potential contamination hazard.
Thus, while ISO 18593 specifies how to sample, the where and how often must be determined by the food business operator through a risk‑based approach.