BS 6986-1:1988, ISO 7516-1984

Overview

BS 6986-1:1988, which aligns with ISO 7516:1984, provides essential guidelines for the analysis of instant tea through systematic methods of sampling. This standard is crucial for ensuring the quality and consistency of instant tea products, which are widely consumed globally. By adhering to these sampling methods, manufacturers and quality control professionals can ensure that their products meet both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.

Key Requirements

The standard outlines specific procedures for sampling instant tea, which are vital for accurate analysis and quality assurance. Key requirements include:

• Sampling Plan: Establishing a robust sampling plan that defines the number of samples to be taken and the frequency of sampling.
• Sample Size: Determining the appropriate sample size to ensure representativeness of the batch.
• Sampling Techniques: Employing suitable techniques for collecting samples to avoid contamination and ensure integrity.
• Storage and Transport: Guidelines for the proper storage and transport of samples to maintain their quality until testing.

Implementation Benefits

Implementing the guidelines set forth in BS 6986-1:1988 offers several benefits to food manufacturers and quality assurance teams:

• Quality Assurance: Ensures that the instant tea produced meets specified quality standards, thereby enhancing consumer trust.
• Regulatory Compliance: Helps manufacturers comply with food safety regulations and standards, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties.
• Consistency: Promotes consistency in product quality, which is essential for brand reputation and customer satisfaction.
• Improved Testing Accuracy: Facilitates accurate testing results by ensuring that samples are representative of the entire batch.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS 6986-1:1988 is not just about adhering to a standard; it is about embedding quality practices into the operational framework of food production. By following these guidelines, companies can:

• Enhance Product Safety: Reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring that products are safe for consumption.
• Build Consumer Confidence: Demonstrating a commitment to quality and safety can enhance brand loyalty and consumer confidence.
• Facilitate Market Access: Compliance with international standards can ease entry into new markets, as many countries require adherence to ISO standards.
• Support Continuous Improvement: The standard encourages ongoing evaluation and improvement of sampling methods, fostering a culture of quality within the organisation.

In conclusion, BS 6986-1:1988 is an indispensable resource for professionals involved in the production and quality control of instant tea. By implementing its guidelines, organisations can achieve significant improvements in product quality, safety, and compliance.