The microbiology lab has 3 main activities
• Microbiological tests for evaluation of bactericidal fungicidal and yeasticidal activities of chemical disinfectants and antiseptics regulated by a set of European norms. The most common norms are:
o EN 1040
o EN 1275
o EN 1276
o EN 1650
o EN 1656
o EN 1657
o EN 13697
o EN 13704
These European norms (written international procedures) take account the practical circumstances and applications of the product: contact time, temperature, test organisms and interfering substances. All conditions that can alter the proper function of the product in practical situations (in vivo) is reconstituted in vitro. These conditions are defined so that comparison is possible between different labs and different product types.
Each of the in vitro requested concentrations of the chemical disinfectant or the antiseptic in this test matches a certain test condition in real life. It is possible to alter any of the above quoted parameters oft the European norm. In this case you can use any strain you want to test in stead of the standard microorganisms stated in the European norm. The microbiological lab of CIRLAM Laboratory can also execute AFNOR, AOAC and DLG tests. Please feel free to contact us to obtain more information about this subject.
• In another part of the microbiological lab, we conduct routine sample analysis. In fact, in many parts of the food industry, there is a constant demand for the control of proper hygiene. Special methods need to be used to gather samples in a correct manner. Taking a water sample, contact plates and swabs are the most conventional techniques for examining the hygiene in specialized work areas. When receiving these samples, professional laboratory of CIRLAM Laboratory, can determine several parameters, including:
o Total count
o Total bacterial count
o Total fungicidal count
o Enterococci count
o Coliforms
o Salmonella
o Listeria monocytogenes
o Etc...
• In collaboration with the chemistry department, we participate to the development of new products for our clients.