Devices, system and methods for sampling frozen food products are provided. Devices can include thawing devices having a cover forming an enclosure over containers of frozen food products and an air heating unit mounted in the cover and having a airflow output disposed in an opening in the cover to direct heated air across the frozen product sufficiently to thaw a surface of the food product for sampling. The heated air unit can include controls for controlling a heating level and/or duration of heating to thaw the surface. Sampling systems can include the thawing device and a sampling sheet or mitt for directly contacting the thawed surface to obtain an aggregated sample. Methods include exposing frozen food in a container to heated air via the thawing device and subsequently contact sampling the thawed surface with a sampling sheet or mitt and testing the aggregated sample for target analytes.
United States as Represented by the Secretary of Agriculture (USA)
Inventor
Arthur, Terrance
Wheeler, Tommy
Wilhelmsen, Eric Child
Wu, Florence Q.
Huang, Yongqing
Wu, Wei
Abstract
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, a method may include providing at least one aggregating sampler at one or more sampling locations, and sampling a production lot of produce or other food items such as meat using the at least one aggregating sampler to create one or more samples that makes up a microbial sampling. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, an apparatus, such as a microbial aggregating sampler, may include a covering having a microbial sampling material with a pocket formed in the covering to receive an appendage or a tool for handling of the covering.
Manual samplers and sampling methods that facilitate improved dexterity and ease of use and that can be manufacture quickly and cost effectively are provided herein. Such sampler can include sampling sheet(s) with a pocket defined by seams to accommodate a user's entire hand for manual sampling of one or more products, in particular aggregate sampling of multiple products. Samplers can include entry seams to fit along the user's writs to retain the sampler on the user's hand and/or interior seams that engage the user's digits to improve dexterity while contact sampling of uneven surfaces.
Manual samplers and sampling methods that facilitate improved dexterity and ease of use and that can be manufacture quickly and cost effectively are provided herein. Such sampler can include sampling sheet(s) with a pocket defined by seams to accommodate a user's entire hand for manual sampling of one or more products, in particular aggregate sampling of multiple products. Samplers can include entry seams to fit along the user's writs to retain the sampler on the user's hand and/or interior seams that engage the user's digits to improve dexterity while contact sampling of uneven surfaces.
Manual samplers and sampling methods that facilitate improved dexterity and ease of use and that can be manufacture quickly and cost effectively are provided herein. Such sampler can include sampling sheet(s) with a pocket defined by seams to accommodate a user's entire hand for manual sampling of one or more products, in particular aggregate sampling of multiple products. Samplers can include entry seams to fit along the user's writs to retain the sampler on the user's hand and/or interior seams that engage the user's digits to improve dexterity while contact sampling of uneven surfaces.
Methods and apparatus for improved microbial sampling of foods and sample treatment are provided herein. Such methods may include sampling production lots of produce or other food items such as meat using an aggregating sampler to create one or more samples. Methods and devices that improve concentration of the fluid sample obtained from the aggregate sample include filtering of fluid sample through a filter and/or filter aid materials and lysing target material trapped within the filter and/or filter aid materials to release molecules from targeted microorganisms, which are recovered in a concentrated fluid sample for testing. Sample treatment systems and methods can be automated with various buffer reservoirs and removable cartridges that facilitate controlled flow of fluid sample therethrough to produce a purified, concentrated fluid sample, typically within two hours or less. Such systems can further be configured with removable cartridges and use with sample filter cups and collection cups.
Sampling probe devices, systems and methods for sampling frozen or solid meltable products. Such systems can include a heating element for placing against the frozen or solid product and a sampler with a cover fabricated at least partly from a microbial sampling medium so the cover absorbs a liquid sample from the product. Methods of sampling include heating the product and contacting the product with the cover until sufficient liquid sample is absorbed by the cover of the sampler. The cover can be weighed after sampling and compared to a before-sampling weight to confirm sufficient liquid was obtained. The sample can be tested as an aggregate sample that is representative of the lot or batch of product being sampled, including testing without an enrichment procedure. Systems utilizing automated heated-sampling plates and radiative heaters are also described.
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, a method may include providing at least one aggregating sampler at one or more sampling locations, and sampling a production lot of produce or other food items such as meat using the at least one aggregating sampler to create one or more samples that makes up a microbial sampling. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, an apparatus, such as a microbial aggregating sampler, may include a covering having a microbial sampling material with a pocket formed in the covering to receive an appendage or a tool for handling of the covering.
Sampling probe devices and methods for sampling frozen or solid meltable products are provided herein. Such devices can include a sampling probe with heating element and a cover fabricated at least partly from a microbial sampling medium that fits over the probe and heating element so that when the heated probe is placed against the frozen or solid product, the cover absorbs a liquid sample from the product. Methods of sampling include heating the probe and contacting the product with the cover until sufficient liquid sample is absorbed by the cover. The cover can be weighed after sampling and compared to a before-sampling weight to confirm sufficient liquid was obtained. The sample can be tested as an aggregate sample that is representative of the lot or batch of product being sampled, including testing without an enrichment procedure. Systems utilizing automated heated-sampling plates and radiative heaters are also described.
Sampling probe devices and methods for sampling frozen or solid meltable products are provided herein. Such devices can include a sampling probe with heating element and a cover fabricated at least partly from a microbial sampling medium that fits over the probe and heating element so that when the heated probe is placed against the frozen or solid product, the cover absorbs a liquid sample from the product. Methods of sampling include heating the probe and contacting the product with the cover until sufficient liquid sample is absorbed by the cover. The cover can be weighed after sampling and compared to a before-sampling weight to confirm sufficient liquid was obtained. The sample can be tested as an aggregate sample that is representative of the lot or batch of product being sampled, including testing without an enrichment procedure. Systems utilizing automated heated-sampling plates and radiative heaters are also described.
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, a method may include providing at least one aggregating sampler at one or more sampling locations, and sampling a production lot of produce or other food items such as meat using the at least one aggregating sampler to create one or more samples that makes up a microbial sampling. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, an apparatus, such as a microbial aggregating sampler, may include a covering having a microbial sampling material with a pocket formed in the covering to receive an appendage or a tool for handling of the covering.
Methods and devices for non-invasively assessing lethality and/or cross contamination of a process. In some embodiments, an aggregating sampler is used, such as a fixture catcher, to obtain samples before, after and/or during the process. In some embodiments, an isolated packet of bacteria is exposed to the active elements of the process without contacting the product. In other embodiments, a method to measure lethality using microgenomic analysis is reported. In still other embodiments, a procedure is reported to use the knowledge from a microgenomic process to use direct qPCR for identified genera species to measure cross contamination. These metrics have special utility in the validation of wash water performance but may have utility is assessing process performance when unpackaged product is treated as for blanching and irradiation. Process performance can include verification of process delivery or for research.
Methods and devices for non-invasively assessing lethality and/or cross contamination of a process. In some embodiments, an aggregating sampler is used, such as a fixture catcher, to obtain samples before, after and/or during the process. In some embodiments, an isolated packet of bacteria is exposed to the active elements of the process without contacting the product. In other embodiments, a method to measure lethality using microgenomic analysis is reported. In still other embodiments, a procedure is reported to use the knowledge from a microgenomic process to use direct qPCR for identified genera species to measure cross contamination. These metrics have special utility in the validation of wash water performance but may have utility is assessing process performance when unpackaged product is treated as for blanching and irradiation. Process performance can include verification of process delivery or for research.
Powered sampling systems, devices and methods of surface sampling are provided herein. A portable handheld sampling device can include an actuator operably coupled with a sampling head supporting a sample medium. One or more sensor indicate when a suitable force or pressure is applied by the sampling device as well as the duration of sampling. The actuator can provide movement of the sampling medium, such as rotational movement. The sampling device can provide guidance to a user to facilitate standardized sampling according to a sampling protocol. The sampling device and system can include communication means to facilitate automatic sample logging and period updates of sample protocols. System for creating and managing sampling plans and test results are also provided herein.
Powered sampling systems, devices and methods of surface sampling are provided herein. A portable handheld sampling device can include an actuator operably coupled with a sampling head supporting a sample medium. One or more sensor indicate when a suitable force or pressure is applied by the sampling device as well as the duration of sampling. The actuator can provide movement of the sampling medium, such as rotational movement. The sampling device can provide guidance to a user to facilitate standardized sampling according to a sampling protocol. The sampling device and system can include communication means to facilitate automatic sample logging and period updates of sample protocols. System for creating and managing sampling plans and test results are also provided herein.
Powered sampling systems, devices and methods of surface sampling are provided herein. A portable handheld sampling device can include an actuator operably coupled with a sampling head supporting a sample medium. One or more sensor indicate when a suitable force or pressure is applied by the sampling device as well as the duration of sampling. The actuator can provide movement of the sampling medium, such as rotational movement. The sampling device can provide guidance to a user to facilitate standardized sampling according to a sampling protocol. The sampling device and system can include communication means to facilitate automatic sample logging and period updates of sample protocols. System for creating and managing sampling plans and test results are also provided herein.
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE (USA)
FREMONTA CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
Arthur, Terrance
Wheeler, Tommy
Wilhelmsen, Eric Child
Wu, Florence Q.
Huang, Yongqing
Wu, Wei
Abstract
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, a method may include providing at least one aggregating sampler at one or more sampling locations, and sampling a production lot of produce or other food items such as meat using the at least one aggregating sampler to create one or more samples that makes up a microbial sampling. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, an apparatus, such as a microbial aggregating sampler, may include a covering having a microbial sampling material with a pocket formed in the covering to receive an appendage or a tool for handling of the covering.
G01N 35/02 - Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups Handling materials therefor using a plurality of sample containers moved by a conveyor system past one or more treatment or analysis stations
18.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING AGGREGATING SAMPLING
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE (USA)
Inventor
Arthur, Terrance
Wheeler, Tommy
Wilhelmsen, Eric Child
Wu, Florence Q.
Huang, Yongqing
Wu, Austin
Abstract
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, a method may include providing at least one aggregating sampler at one or more sampling locations, and sampling a production lot of produce or other food items such as meat using the at least one aggregating sampler to create one or more samples that makes up a microbial sampling. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, an apparatus, such as a microbial aggregating sampler, may include a covering having a microbial sampling material with a pocket formed in the covering to receive an appendage or a tool for handling of the covering.
G01N 35/02 - Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups Handling materials therefor using a plurality of sample containers moved by a conveyor system past one or more treatment or analysis stations
C12Q 1/6888 - Nucleic acid products used in the analysis of nucleic acids, e.g. primers or probes for detection or identification of organisms
19.
Method and apparatus for applying aggregating sampling to food items
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, a method may include providing at least one aggregating sampler at one or more sampling locations, and sampling a production lot of produce or other food items such as meat using the at least one aggregating sampler to create one or more samples that makes up a microbial sampling. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, an apparatus, such as a microbial aggregating sampler, may include a covering having a microbial sampling material with a pocket formed in the covering to receive an appendage or a tool for handling of the covering.
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, a method may include providing at least one aggregating sampler at one or more sampling locations, and sampling a production lot of produce or other food items such as meat using the at least one aggregating sampler to create one or more samples that makes up a microbial sampling. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, an apparatus, such as a microbial aggregating sampler, may include a covering having a microbial sampling material with a pocket formed in the covering to receive an appendage or a tool for handling of the covering.
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, a method may include providing at least one aggregating sampler at one or more sampling locations, and sampling a production lot of produce or other food items such as meat using the at least one aggregating sampler to create one or more samples that makes up a microbial sampling. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for microbial sampling of foods. For example, an apparatus, such as a microbial aggregating sampler, may include a covering having a microbial sampling material with a pocket formed in the covering to receive an appendage or a tool for handling of the covering.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
24 - Textiles and textile goods
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Mechanical and electro-mechanical device for batch sampling,
identification, measuring, testing and analysis of
pathogens, biological and chemical agents, and toxins,
consisting of non-woven cloth and metal cartridge for
holding cloth, for use in the food safety field; mechanical
device and electro-mechanical device for batch sampling,
detection, identification, measuring, testing and analysis
of biological and chemical agents, pathogens, toxins, within
food products; automated equipment for mounting and exposing
cartridges holding fabrics, synthetic fabrics, and non-woven
cloths for use in sampling and testing of food for use in
the food safety field; metal cartridge used to hold fabrics,
non-woven cloth and synthetic fabric used in sampling and
testing of food in the field of food safety, sold empty;
metal cartridge pre-installed with fabrics, non-woven cloth
and synthetic fabric used in sampling and testing of food in
the field of food safety. Scientific instruments, namely, electrical, mechanical and
electro-mechanical apparatus and instruments for the
sampling, detection, identification, measuring, and testing,
and analysis of pathogens, biological and chemical agents,
and toxins; cassette device to collect samples for use in
the field of food safety; detection instrument for
real-time, on-site, rapid analysis of biological and
chemical agents, pathogens, toxins, and heavy metals;
detection instrument and cassette device sold as a unit for
real-time, on-site, rapid analysis of biological and
chemical agents, pathogens, toxins, and heavy metals. Fabrics, synthetic fabrics, non-woven cloth, sponges and
other sample collection media used in sampling and testing
of food in the field of food safety; fabrics, synthetic
fabrics and non-woven cloth. Food safety testing and analysis, and consultation related
thereto.
01 - Chemical and biological materials for industrial, scientific and agricultural use
07 - Machines and machine tools
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
21 - HouseHold or kitchen utensils, containers and materials; glassware; porcelain; earthenware
22 - Rope, netting, tents, awnings, sails and sacks; padding and stuffing materials
24 - Textiles and textile goods
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Other sample collection media namely liquid chemical extraction agents used in sampling and testing of food in the field of food safety.
(2) Mechanical and electro-mechanical device for industrial food processing machines consisting of a metal cartridge for holding two woven pieces of cloth for batch sampling, identification, measuring, testing and analysis of pathogens, biological and chemical agents, and toxins for use in the food safety field; Mechanical device and electro-mechanical device for industrial food processing machines consisting of non-woven cloth, food-grade plastic cartridge and metal base-plate for holding cloth for batch sampling, detection, identification, measuring, testing and analysis of biological and chemical agents, pathogens, and toxins found within food products; automated cartridge and sampling cloth changing machines for mounting and exposing cartridges holding fabrics, synthetic fabrics, and non-woven cloths for use in sampling and testing of food for use in the food safety field; metal cartridge used to hold fabrics, non-woven cloth and synthetic fabric used in sampling and testing of food in the field of food safety, sold empty; metal cartridge pre-installed with fabrics, non-woven cloth and synthetic fabric used in sampling and testing of food in the field of food safety.
(3) Scientific laboratory instruments for the detection and identification of biological and chemical samples from food in order to measure and test these samples for further pathogens and toxins for the food safety industry; Microbiology cassettes to contact food surfaces during processing in order to collect continuous samples for industrial use in the field of food safety; concentration instrumentation for non-cultured for realtime, on-site, rapid analysis of biological and chemical agents, pathogens, toxins, and heavy metals; Concentration instrumentation for non-cultured microbial analysis and microbiology cassette analyzers sold as a unit for real-time, on-site, rapid analysis of biological and chemical agents, pathogens, toxins, and heavy metals; other sample collection media used in sampling and testing of food in the field of food safety being microorganism swabbing packets.
(4) Sponges used in sampling and testing of food in the field of food safety.
(5) Cotton fibre used in sampling and testing of food in the field of food safety.
(6) Fabrics, synthetic fabrics, non-woven cloth, paper yarn fabric, used in sampling and testing of food in the field of food safety. (1) Food safety testing and analysis, and consultation related thereto.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
24 - Textiles and textile goods
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
instruments, namely, electrical, mechanical and electro-mechanical apparatus and instruments for the sampling, detection, identification, measuring, and testing, and analysis of pathogens, biological and chemical agents, and toxins, namely, scientific instruments for use in increasing concentration of samples, sample analyzers for rapid analysis of biological and chemical agents, pathogens, toxins, and heavy metals, and electronic transmitters of reported data using computer networks; Cassette device for holding sampling medium, namely, cloths, used in conjunction with mechanical and electro-mechanical devices to collect samples of food for use in the field of food safety; detection instrument for real-time, on-site, rapid analysis of biological and chemical agents, pathogens, toxins, and heavy metals; detection instrument and cassette device sold as a unit for real-time, on-site, rapid analysis of biological and chemical agents, pathogens, toxins, and heavy metals woven and non-woven synthetic fabrics and non-woven cotton cloth, used in sampling and testing of food in the field of food safety food safety testing, and consultation related thereto
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE (USA)
Inventor
Wu, Florence
Huang, Yongqing
Arthur, Terrance
Wheeler, Tommy
Abstract
Systems and methods for sampling within a conveyance system are provided herein, such systems and methods being particularly useful in batch sampling of food products for a targeted biological agent. In one aspect, the sampling system includes a conveyance system and one or more sampling devices positioned along a conveyance path such that at least one portion of the batch contacts a sampling medium of the one or more sampling devices. In another aspect, sampling devices are provided that allow a sampling member to be secured in a sampling position for batch testing and readily removed after sampling and tested. The systems, devices and methods herein provide improved sampling coverage of the entire batch and reduce waste and inefficiency as compared to conventional batch sampling methods.
G01N 1/04 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the solid state, e.g. by cutting
G01N 35/02 - Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups Handling materials therefor using a plurality of sample containers moved by a conveyor system past one or more treatment or analysis stations
G01N 1/20 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the liquid or fluent state for flowing or falling materials
