WATER MICROBIOLOGY TESTING
Basic Water Screen
The below tests are considered a basic water screen. This should be conducted regularly, especially if water is a main ingredient in the product you are manufacturing.
Total Viable Count at 37°C
This test gives an indication of water quality and in particular faecal contamination. Higher numbers indicate a possible issue but should ideally be viewed over time using trend analysis to determine the natural counts verse isolated increases in numbers.
Total Viable Count at 22°C
This test gives an indication of water quality and in particular environmental contamination. Higher numbers indicate a possible issue but should ideally be viewed over time using trend analysis to determine the natural counts verse isolated increases in numbers.
Coliforms/100ml
Water contaminated with coliforms can be a potentially serious issue and the result should be <1cfu/100ml.
Escherichia coli/100ml
Water contaminated with E. coli can be a potentially serious issue and the result should be <1cfu/100ml.
Comprehensive Water Screen
Addition of the following two tests to the basic water screen will give a more comprehensive review of the microbiological quality of the production water you are using. It is advised that these tests be added periodically to the basic test suite.
Faecal Streptococci-Enterococci/100ml
Water contaminated with F. Streptococci can be a potentially serious issue and the result should be <1cfu/100ml.
Sulphite Reducing Clostridia/100ml
Water contaminated with S.R.C. can be a potentially serious issue and the result should be <1cfu/100ml.