Standardisation of Sampling and Analysis in Poultry Abattoirs in Support of HACCP-based Hygiene Solutions

This research project aims to investigate if standard microbiological sampling and analysis methods can be produced for use in poultry abattoirs for verification of HACCP.
<p>The project will:<ul>

<li>provide information on which currently-used sampling and microbiological test methods are used by the industry and which are most practical for use as potential hygiene performance indicators for verification of HACCP;
<li>provide scientifically-backed data for the Agency that are suitable to investigate the use and usefulness of percentile-based determination of hygiene bands in UK plants and so enable the Agency to develop their policy on microbiological criteria for white meat abattoirs;
<li>if appropriate, help supply guidance to industry on how to best to prepare for potential future EU requirements for microbiological testing in white meat plants; and
<li>if appropriate provide poultry plants with standardised tools needed to monitor, compare and improve plant hygiene levels. </ul>

<p>Find more about this project and other FSA food safety-related projects at the <a href="http://www.food.gov.uk/science/research/&quot; target="_blank">Food Standards Agency Research webpage</a>.