BS ISO 16649-2:2001

Overview

BS ISO 16649-2:2001 outlines a horizontal method for the enumeration of β-glucuronidase-positive Escherichia coli in food and animal feeding stuffs. This standard employs a colony-count technique at 44°C using 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-glucuronide (BCIG) as a chromogenic substrate. The presence of β-glucuronidase-positive E. coli is a critical indicator of faecal contamination, which can have significant implications for food safety and public health.

Key Requirements

The standard specifies the following key requirements for laboratories and food safety professionals:

• Sample Preparation: Proper collection and preparation of samples to ensure accurate results.
• Incubation Conditions: Maintaining an incubation temperature of 44°C to promote the growth of β-glucuronidase-positive E. coli.
• Colony Count Technique: Utilising the BCIG substrate to facilitate the identification of colonies that produce a blue pigment, indicating the presence of E. coli.
• Quality Control: Implementing quality control measures to validate the accuracy and reliability of results.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting BS ISO 16649-2:2001 provides numerous benefits for compliance professionals:

• Enhanced Food Safety: By accurately identifying β-glucuronidase-positive E. coli, businesses can mitigate risks associated with faecal contamination in food products.
• Standardised Methodology: The standard offers a consistent approach that can be applied across various laboratories, ensuring comparability of results.
• Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with this standard helps organisations meet legal requirements and industry regulations related to food safety.
• Improved Public Health Protection: By ensuring food products are free from harmful bacteria, businesses contribute to the overall health and safety of consumers.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS ISO 16649-2:2001 is crucial for organisations involved in food production, processing, and distribution. It not only demonstrates a commitment to food safety but also enhances credibility with regulatory bodies and consumers. The standard serves as a benchmark for best practices in microbiological testing, providing assurance that products are safe for consumption.

In summary, BS ISO 16649-2:2001 is an essential standard for the enumeration of β-glucuronidase-positive E. coli. Its implementation not only aids in compliance with food safety regulations but also plays a vital role in protecting public health. By adhering to this standard, organisations can ensure the integrity of their products and foster consumer trust.