Your sampling and testing program needs to take into consideration
not only the Food Standards Code and any relevant state regulations,
but also any specific requirements the importing country or your customer may have.
As an export manufacturer,
you must clearly document your finished product pathogen testing regime.
This includes describing how many samples for each product type needs to be taken,
how often, over how many batches,
who is responsible for sampling,
what testing methods are used,
what are the acceptable limits,
and training for your responsible personnel to ensure they are competent in performing these tasks.
In the event of a failed pathogen result,
your procedure must document what corrective actions are to be taken,
including who is responsible for retesting the product,
reviewing the results, and releasing the product for export.
Some importing countries may request
that certain tests only be done by NATA certified laboratories.
Sampling and testing procedures must be reviewed to ensure they are up to date.
For example, are test results clear and do they include the appropriate details?
Does your importing country or customer have any new or changed requirements?
By following an approved sampling and testing program,
you can ensure your products meet export requirements,
your importing country requirements,
your customer requirements, and most importantly, is safe for human consumption.