ISO 6670:2002

Overview

ISO 6670:2002 is an international standard that defines the sampling method for bulk units of instant coffee with liners. It specifically addresses consignments shipped in units of ten or more, with packaging designed to protect the coffee from moisture and contamination. The standard applies mainly to spray-dried and freeze-dried instant coffee packaged typically in 10 to 50 kg net mass units, including larger bulk formats like big bags or supersacks.

The purpose of ISO 6670:2002 is to provide a reliable, repeatable procedure for sampling instant coffee consignments to:

• Verify compliance with contract specifications
• Support the evaluation of coffee for sale and quality control
• Facilitate technical, commercial, administrative, and arbitration examinations
• Provide reference samples for potential legal disputes

This standard ensures the integrity of instant coffee samples by considering the hygroscopic and fragile nature of the product.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability
  Designed for bulk instant coffee units with moisture-resistant, hermetically sealed liners
  Applies to units generally between 10 and 50 kg, including larger plastic big bags

• Sampling Procedure
  Randomized selection of units based on agreed quantities
  Use of stainless steel scoops for precise increments (~100 g each)
  Collection of increments to form a bulk sample of at least 1,000 g
  Preparation of blended bulk samples and laboratory samples without compromising sample integrity

• Sample Handling and Storage
  Protection against contamination and moisture absorption
  Moisture-proof, oxygen-tight containers with secure closures
  Prompt dispatch of laboratory samples for analysis
  Retention of blended bulk and individual increments until final acceptance

• Sampling Reports and Documentation
  Detailed record of sampling conditions, including lot identification and presence of damaged units
  Reporting environmental conditions like humidity and potential contaminants

• Equipment Requirements
  Use of specially designed stainless steel scoops to minimize particle breakdown
  Clean, inert packaging materials that do not affect coffee odor or taste

Applications

ISO 6670:2002's sampling methodology is crucial for:

• Quality Assurance in Coffee Processing
  Ensures that consignments meet defined quality and safety standards before bulk release or sale.

• Commercial Transactions
  Provides a standardized basis for acceptance or rejection of instant coffee shipments in trade agreements.

• Regulatory Compliance
  Assists in adhering to international food product regulations and contract specifications.

• Technical and Arbitration Purposes
  Facilitates consistent sampling for dispute resolution or product characterization.

• Laboratory Testing and Analysis
  Supports accurate and representative testing of physical and chemical properties, such as bulk density and particle size.

Related Standards

• ISO 3509: Coffee and its Products - Vocabulary
  Defines terms used in ISO 6670:2002 and provides a common linguistic framework for coffee products.

• Other ISO Standards on Coffee Quality and Testing Methods
  Standards detailing sensory evaluation, chemical analysis, and packaging of coffee products complement ISO 6670 by addressing other aspects of quality assurance.

ISO 6670:2002 provides an internationally recognized, practical approach to sampling bulk instant coffee units with liners. By following this standard, coffee producers, traders, and laboratories can ensure representative sampling that maintains product integrity, supports quality control, and meets contractual and legal requirements.