AS 5013.8-2004

This International Standard specifies a method for the detection and enumeration of Enterobacteriaceae present in all kinds of meat and meat products, including poultry. Enumeration is carried out as follows:– by calculation of the most probable number (MPN) after incubation at 35°C or 37°C in liquid medium; or– by counting colonies in a solid medium after incubation at 35°C or 37°C.The temperature used is to be the subject of agreement between the parties concerned, and is to be stated in the test report.NOTE In the case of frozen foods, an incubation temperature of 30°C is preferred when the aim of the enumeration is technological.For low numbers, the MPN method is preferable, otherwise the colony-count method is preferred.This International Standard does not include resuscitation procedures and the results should not, therefore, be related to criteria or specifications based on the assumption that resuscitation has been carried out.A limitation on the applicability of this International Standard is imposed by susceptibility of the methods to a largedegree of variability. The methods should be used and the results interpreted in the light of the information given in 10.3.

First published as AS 5013.8-2004.