BS EN ISO 21567:2004

Overview

BS EN ISO 21567:2004 provides a horizontal method for the detection of Shigella spp. in foods and animal feeding stuffs. This standard is crucial for microbiological testing, ensuring food safety and compliance with health regulations. Shigella spp. are pathogenic bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness, making their detection vital for public health.

Key Requirements

The standard outlines specific methodologies for the identification and quantification of Shigella spp. in various food products. Key requirements include:

• Sample preparation techniques to isolate Shigella spp.
• Use of selective media for effective growth and identification.
• Confirmatory tests to validate the presence of Shigella spp.
• Quality control measures to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting BS EN ISO 21567:2004 provides several practical benefits for laboratories and food manufacturers:

• Enhanced Food Safety: Regular testing for Shigella spp. helps prevent outbreaks of foodborne illnesses.
• Regulatory Compliance: Aligning with this standard ensures adherence to national and international food safety regulations.
• Improved Quality Assurance: Implementing the methods outlined in this standard enhances the overall quality control processes within food production and handling.
• Standardised Testing Procedures: The standard provides a consistent approach to testing, facilitating comparability of results across different laboratories.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS EN ISO 21567:2004 is essential for any organisation involved in the production, processing, or distribution of food and animal feed. The standard not only helps in meeting legal obligations but also builds consumer trust by demonstrating a commitment to food safety. Furthermore, adherence to this standard can mitigate the risk of product recalls and associated financial losses.

In conclusion, BS EN ISO 21567:2004 is a vital standard for ensuring the safety of food products through the effective detection of Shigella spp. Its implementation supports compliance with health regulations and enhances the overall safety and quality of food and animal feed.