| Description |
Most Probable Number (MPN) method for enumeration of E.coli in shellfish. |
| Application |
End product testing of shellfish and classification of shellfish harvesting areas. |
| Accreditation/ regulatory |
UKAS accredited; reference method for the classification of shellfish harvesting areas (as defined in ISO/TS 16649-3:2005). |
| Sample type |
Live shellfish - all types. |
| Sample requirements |
mussels: 30; oysters: 15-20; scallops/razors 10-15; cockles/clams: 30-50. Shellfish must be live and chilled (1-8ºC) but not in direct contact with ice. |
| Testing Schedule |
Analysis carried out daily Monday to Thursday. Samples must arrive before 3pm on a Thursday. Not more than 48 hours must elapse between sampling and arrival at the laboratory. |
| Turnaround |
48 hours (Samples received on Thursday will be reported the following Monday). |
| Sample submission |
Microbiological Submission Form (PDF) |
| Specification |
Download coming soon |
Microbiology & Norovirus