Methods, systems and devices for batch sampling

Inventors

WU, Florence • Huang, Yongqing • ARTHUR, TERRANCE • WHEELER, TOMMY

Assignees

Fremonta Corp • US Department of Agriculture USDA

Abstract

Systems and methods for sampling within a conveyance system are provided herein, such systems and methods being particularly useful in batch sampling of food products for a targeted biological agent. In one aspect, the sampling system includes a conveyance system and one or more sampling devices positioned along a conveyance path such that at least one portion of the batch contacts a sampling medium of the one or more sampling devices. In another aspect, sampling devices are provided that allow a sampling member to be secured in a sampling position for batch testing and readily removed after sampling and tested. The systems, devices and methods herein provide improved sampling coverage of the entire batch and reduce waste and inefficiency as compared to conventional batch sampling methods.

Core Innovation

This invention relates to batch sampling for detection of a targeted agent within a batch of products, particularly useful for detecting biological agents such as pathogens in animal food products like beef trimmings. The system includes a conveyance system with one or more sampling devices positioned along the conveyance path so that a portion of the batch contacts a sampling medium, which retains residue for subsequent testing to assess the presence of the targeted agent.

Current batch sampling methods in food production, especially for beef trimmings, face issues including limited sampling coverage, particularly sampling only from the top of large batches, labor intensiveness, and substantial destruction of product during testing. For example, the conventional N=60 method samples a relatively small portion and leaves much of the product unsampled, risking contamination in consumer products despite negative test results in trim sampling.

The invention addresses these issues by providing sampling devices and methods that improve sampling coverage across the entire batch conveyed along the conveyance path while reducing product waste and increasing efficiency. The sampling devices include easily removable sampling members with porous surfaces like sponges or filaments that capture liquid or solid residues from conveyed items. These devices are designed for simple attachment and removal, facilitating batch-specific sampling and improved accuracy without destroying uncontaminated product.

Claims Coverage

The claims include three independent claims covering sampling devices and methods for batch sampling using a conveyance system with attachable sampling pads or sheets.

The independent claims collectively cover sampling devices with porous pads or sheets secured in stationary positions along conveyance systems for exposing conveyed items to the sampling medium, with removable and replaceable sampling members for testing various targeted agents including biological agents. Methods claim the use of these sampling devices for collecting samples during conveyance and testing using culturing techniques or spectroscopy, particularly applicable to batch food products like meat trimmings.

Stated Advantages

Documented Applications