A working group of the United Fresh Food Safety & Technology Council led by Bob Mills of Misionero Vegetables has completed work on a white paper regarding microbiological testing of fresh produce. According to the paper, "the purpose of the white paper is to briefly identify where a microbiological testing program may be useful and considerations to take for designing and implementing a program. It is not the intention of this paper to establish specific microbiological testing recommendations or requirements for any fruit or vegetable product or commodity." 

The white paper explores the factors companies should consider in deciding whether to perform or require microbiological testing before ever collecting the first sample, including assessment of the need to test, why not to test, what to test, when to test and limitations of testing. The paper also provides information on microorganisms and tests relevant to fresh produce, including aerobic plate count, psychrotrophs, yeast and mold, coliforms, thermotolerant or "fecal" coliforms, generic E. coli, pathogen testing and environmental testing.  Finally, the paper provides guidance on developing a testing program, including determining the quantity of samples, ensuring proper sample collection, selecting a sample site and actions based on results.

"Our intent was to provide a brief but useful resource on microbiological testing that anyone in the produce industry can use," said Mills.

"We know there is an ongoing debate in the industry on the need and usefulness of microbiological testing," said Dr. David Gombas, United Fresh senior vice president of food safety and technology. "The white paper does not take sides in that debate. Rather, it provides a balanced, objective list of considerations, allowing the reader to decide for themselves whether microbiological testing makes sense for what they want to accomplish."

The white paper is available to download from the United Fresh website. Questions or comments regarding the content of the white paper can be directed to Dr. Gombas at 202-303-3400, ext. 411.