Our
laboratory counts with state of the art equipment that let us do the work
in an accurate and precise way, obtaining test results in the fastest way
possible using computerized equipment.
We prepare our own plates using an S 8000 automatic sterilizer and APS 300
plate pourer. We pre-incubate our plates for 24 hours so we are sure there
is no contamination before the samples are dispensed onto the plates.
We dispense the samples with a WASP spiral plater; and after the required
incubation time a Protocol counter is used. The Protocol produces a digital
image of the plate and using integrated software counts the colonies from
the image then automatically produces results on the screen after a few
seconds. These results are integrated into our database system letting us
generate reports in any way we need and in the fastest way possible while
avoiding human error.
In the Microbiology area in order to help producers we have developed techniques
for the detection of mastitis causing organism; Staphylococcus aureus, Streptoccocus,
Mycoplasma, Pseudomonas, E.coli, Yeast.
In the chemistry area we analyze milk samples with an FT 120 analyzer, capable
of analyzing 100 samples per hour with high accuracy and precision. The
results from this equipment go directly into a spreadsheet with the sample
identification and from there they are integrated into our database. This
allows us to create reports with all of the information the customer may
need.
I & A Lab has developed a rapid method to determine the shelf life of
pasteurized milk. This analysis uses a set of specially prepared broths
for detecting very low concentrations of microorganisms by analyzing 10
ml of sample per broth. With this procedure we can detect milk that only
has 10-day shelf life within 24 hours. We can also predict how many days
the milk will remain in good condition if stored at 45 F or 50 F.
This technique provides a report in 48 hours stating the quantity of Psychrophilic
bacteria (can break down milk proteins to produce off flavors), as well
as Pseudomonas, Coliforms and Mesophilic bacteria. This report promptly
alerts dairy plants to potential problems. |
|