BS EN ISO 19036:2019 - Microbiology of the Food Chain

Estimation of Measurement Uncertainty for Quantitative Determinations

Standard Number: BS EN ISO 19036:2019

Pages: 48

Released: 2019-12-05

ISBN: 978 0 580 96304 9

Status: Standard

Overview

The BS EN ISO 19036:2019 is a crucial standard for professionals in the field of food microbiology. It provides comprehensive guidelines for the estimation of measurement uncertainty in quantitative determinations within the food chain. This standard is essential for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of microbiological testing, which is a critical component in maintaining food safety and quality.

Why is Measurement Uncertainty Important?

In the realm of food microbiology, measurement uncertainty refers to the doubt that exists about the result of a measurement. Understanding and estimating this uncertainty is vital because it affects the interpretation of test results, compliance with regulatory requirements, and the overall decision-making process in food safety management. The BS EN ISO 19036:2019 standard provides a structured approach to quantify this uncertainty, thereby enhancing the credibility and comparability of test results.

Key Features of BS EN ISO 19036:2019

• Comprehensive Guidelines: The standard offers detailed instructions on how to estimate measurement uncertainty, tailored specifically for quantitative determinations in food microbiology.
• Internationally Recognized: As part of the ISO standards, it is recognized globally, facilitating international trade and cooperation in food safety.
• Enhances Food Safety: By providing a reliable method for estimating measurement uncertainty, the standard helps in ensuring that food products meet safety and quality standards.
• Supports Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to this standard can assist organizations in meeting various national and international regulatory requirements.

Who Should Use This Standard?

This standard is indispensable for a wide range of professionals and organizations involved in the food industry, including:

• Food Microbiologists: Professionals who conduct microbiological testing and need to ensure the accuracy of their results.
• Quality Assurance Managers: Individuals responsible for maintaining the quality and safety of food products.
• Regulatory Bodies: Organizations that oversee food safety standards and compliance.
• Food Manufacturers: Companies that produce food products and need to ensure their products meet safety standards.

Benefits of Implementing BS EN ISO 19036:2019

Implementing this standard offers numerous benefits, including:

• Improved Accuracy: By accurately estimating measurement uncertainty, organizations can improve the precision of their microbiological testing.
• Enhanced Credibility: Reliable test results enhance the credibility of an organization in the eyes of consumers and regulatory bodies.
• Risk Mitigation: Understanding measurement uncertainty helps in identifying potential risks and implementing measures to mitigate them.
• Competitive Advantage: Organizations that adhere to international standards are often viewed more favorably in the global market.

Conclusion

The BS EN ISO 19036:2019 standard is an essential tool for anyone involved in the food industry. By providing a clear framework for estimating measurement uncertainty, it helps ensure the accuracy and reliability of microbiological testing. This, in turn, supports food safety, regulatory compliance, and consumer confidence. Whether you are a food microbiologist, quality assurance manager, or part of a regulatory body, this standard is a valuable resource for enhancing the quality and safety of food products.

BS EN ISO 19036:2019

This standard BS EN ISO 19036:2019 Microbiology of the food chain. Estimation of measurement uncertainty for quantitative determinations is classified in these ICS categories:

• 07.100.30 Food microbiology

This document specifies requirements and gives guidance for the estimation and expression of measurement uncertainty (MU) associated with quantitative results in microbiology of the food chain.

It is applicable to the quantitative analysis of:

• products intended for human consumption or the feeding of animals;

• environmental samples in the area of food production and food handling;

• samples at the stage of primary production.

The quantitative analysis is typically carried out by enumeration of microorganisms using a colony-count technique. This document is also generally applicable to other quantitative analyses, including:

• most probable number (MPN) techniques;

• instrumental methods, such as impediometry, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and flow cytometry;

• molecular methods, such as methods based on quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

The uncertainty estimated by this document does not include systematic effects (bias).