The Milk and Dairies (Semi-skimmed and Skimmed Milk) (Heat Treatment and Labelling) Regulations 1988

PART I provisions as to sampling

Taking of sample

1.  A sample may be taken at any time when the milk is in the possession of a milk processor or milk purveyor.

2.  When the milk is in containers with a capacity not exceeding 1.25 litres, or when the milk has been treated by the ultra high temperature method whether or not such milk is in containers with a capacity not exceeding 1.25 litres, the sample shall consist of one such container which shall be delivered intact to the testing laboratory.

3.  When the milk (other than milk which has been treated by the ultra high temperature method) is in containers with a capacity exceeding 1.25 litres, the sample shall consist of not less than 60 ml. of the milk. The milk shall be thoroughly stirred before sampling and the sample shall be taken from well below the surface of the milk. The instruments used for stirring and sampling shall be sterile and the sample shall be poured into a sterile bottle which shall thereupon be immediately stoppered. The part of the stopper which may come into contact with the milk shall be sterile. Where the person taking the sample breaks the seal on a container he shall, after taking the sample, re-seal the container and attach to it a label certifying that it has been opened and re-sealed by him.

Identification of sample

4.  For the purpose of identification in the testing laboratory, the person taking the sample shall mark the container of the sample with a number or other suitable identification mark at the time of sampling and shall enter in a book or on a paper, which shall accompany the sample, the following particulars:—

(a) the identification number or mark;

(b) the name and address of the person by whom the milk was consigned, or by whom it was being delivered, or on whose premises the sample was taken.

Transport of sample

5.  Subject to paragraph 6 below, the bottle or container containing any sample of milk shall be transferred forthwith to an insulated container, which shall not be artificially cooled, for transport to the testing laboratory. The sample shall be transported to the testing laboratory with the least possible delay. Any sample which does not arrive at the testing laboratory on the day on which it is taken shall be discarded.

6.  A sample of milk, other than sterilised milk or milk treated by the ultra high temperature method in each case in an unopened container, to be subjected to the coliform test prescribed in Part III of this Schedule or the plate count test prescribed in Part IV of this Schedule shall, during its transportation to the testing laboratory, be retained at a temperature of not less than 0°C and not more than 4°C.