What is aseptic sampling?
Aseptic sampling refers to certain
principles that must be followed during product sampling to avoid contamination
or the introduction of a microorganism, or other contaminant, not originally
present in the product by one’s actions.
Aseptic sampling is about managing the risk
of contamination of the sample itself, as well as the process or container.
Why should I practice aseptic sampling?
Collection of samples while not practicing
aseptic technique can lead to contamination of the sample – leading to
inaccurate results, failed quality assessments and potential costs associated
with re-testing product.
For example: A bacteria called Staphylococcus
aureus is a common member of the body’s microbiota and is frequently found
on the surface of the skin and in the upper respiratory tract. If aseptic
technique is not used, such as proper operator hand washing/sanitation and protective
equipment while collecting samples (including gloves), a cross-contamination of
this microorganism can occur between the operator taking the sample and the
product. This could lead to a detection of Staphylococcus aureus in the
sample during quality analysis, leading to a failed quality assurance test.
This could result in a re-test of that product and delays in releasing the
product to market.
How do I practice aseptic sampling?
One of the most important rules when
collecting aseptic samples is to avoid contaminating the sample. This requires
the sample collectors to collect all samples with caution to make sure this
rule is not violated. The results of aseptic sample analysis are questionable,
and of no use, unless the integrity of the sample can be assured from collection
to shipment, and through analysis. We will discuss below some basic methods to
reduce the risk of sample contamination.
For quality control and traceability, when taking a sample be sure to record information such as:
- Who took the sample?
- Where and when was it collected?
- How was it taken?
- What training did the sampler receive?
This can assist in the investigation of any
possible cross-contamination issues.
Personal equipment, such as lab coats, hair
nets or disposable or cleanable boots, are important to ensure that the
collector does not contaminate the sample. Additional essential items for
aseptic sampling include:
- Sterile containers – Ensure that your product is placed into a sterile container or bag, such as Whirl-Pak bags or Falcon tubes. The sampling container must not be opened and exposed to the environment prior to immediate collection of samples to avoid contamination.
- Clean gloves - If a product must be touched during sample collection, have one of the facility workers who are involved with handling the product place the sample into the collection container with gloved hands. Because employees are normally involved in handling the product during production, we would not consider that they have added additional contamination to the product. When gloves are used, they must be put on in a manner that does not contaminate the glove. Gloves must be of the right size to function properly.
- Sampling tools - Spoons, scoops, specific types of triers, forceps, tongs, dippers, and cups. The type of tool used is determined by the product to be sampled; however, to reduce the risk of sample contamination it is recommended to use a new sterile sampling tool for each sample.
In addition, be sure to check the
sterilization date on all sampling equipment and containers. The date should be
on the label or package of the equipment. Some equipment might be sterilized in
one’s local laboratory or purchased sterile. Equipment sterilized in a local
laboratory is normally sterile for at least two months. After that time, the
equipment should be re-sterilized.
Finally, after collection, ensure that the
sample is packaged in a secure way to reduce the risk of damage or
contamination of the sample while it is being transported to the lab for
analysis.
At BloomLabs, we take thorough care to
ensure that the samples we receive are always tested “as received”. Meticulous
aseptic techniques and Standard Operating Procedures are used in the
Microbiology Laboratory to ensure that no cross-contamination occurs during
analysis. For example, this includes use of a Biological Safety Cabinet, proper
sanitation of personnel and surfaces, and sterile sampling equipment and PPE to
ensure that no contamination of the sample occurs during analysis. This ensures
an accurate quality result, free of any contamination from the laboratory.
