ISO 11290-2:2017/Amd 1:2026 PDF

Overview

ISO 11290-2:2017/Amd 1:2026 is an amendment to the international standard for microbiological analysis of the food chain, specifically focusing on the enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes and other Listeria species. This amendment updates the horizontal enumeration method by:

• Providing detailed requirements for the storage of food samples before laboratory analysis,
• Changing the control strain used in performance testing of culture media and reagents.

This standard is developed by ISO Technical Committee 34/Subcommittee 9 (Microbiology), with input from the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). It ensures consistent, accurate detection and enumeration of Listeria in various food products and environments, supporting food safety throughout the supply chain.

Key Topics

1. Sample Storage and Preparation

• Specifies temperature and timing requirements for storing perishable food samples before analysis (preferably 2°C to 8°C).
• Stresses the importance of using representative, undamaged samples.
• Outlines the maximum permissible delay before analysis depending on storage temperature.
• Allows for alternative, validated storage conditions if agreed upon and documented.

2. Performance Testing of Culture Media

• Updates the control strain for Listeria monocytogenes in quality assurance procedures to WDCM 00231.
• References ISO 11133 for productivity, specificity, and selectivity tests.
• Emphasizes the inclusion of control strains for both positive and negative test reactions to ensure reliable enumeration results.
• Lists relevant culture media, reagents, and reaction criteria for validation.

3. Quality Assurance in Food Microbiology

• Details on conducting effective performance testing for culture media and confirmation tests.
• Inclusion of supporting references for various food types, surfaces, and sampling methods.

Applications

ISO 11290-2:2017/Amd 1:2026 is crucial for:

• Food Producers and Processors: Enables standardized enumeration of Listeria spp., aiding compliance with food safety legislation and hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) systems.
• Testing Laboratories: Provides laboratories with harmonized procedures for sample storage, handling, and media validation to generate reliable microbiological data.
• Regulatory Authorities: Supports inspectors and auditors in verifying the integrity and effectiveness of Listeria enumeration protocols implemented by the food industry.
• Quality Assurance Professionals: Enhances the credibility and repeatability of test results, supporting overall food chain safety.

By implementing this amendment, organizations ensure that the enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes and other Listeria species follows internationally accepted best practices, leading to improved detection, risk management, and consumer protection.

Related Standards

• ISO 11290-1: Detection methods for Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria spp. in food and animal feed.
• ISO/TS 17728: Sampling techniques for food and animal feed.
• ISO 707 | IDF 50: Guidance on sampling milk and milk products.
• ISO 18593: Sampling methods for surfaces in the food chain.
• ISO 7218: General requirements and guidance for microbiological examinations.
• ISO 11133: Preparation, production, storage, and performance testing of culture media.
• ISO 20976-1: Guidelines for conducting challenge tests in food and feed to study microbial growth potential.

Practical Benefits

• Enhanced Sample Integrity: Clear requirements for storage and handling minimize changes in Listeria contamination before analysis.
• Updated Performance Controls: Use of a new, standardized control strain improves quality assurance in food microbiology labs.
• Harmonization: Supports the global food industry in meeting regulatory and customer requirements through standardized procedures.
• Risk Reduction: Timely and accurate enumeration of Listeria helps prevent foodborne outbreaks and ensures public health protection.

For organizations involved in food safety management, adopting ISO 11290-2:2017/Amd 1:2026 provides confidence in the detection and enumeration of Listeria, contributing to compliance and consumer trust.