Microbiological Testing

Testing Services

Our laboratories in Cape Town and Midrand offer the largest range of SANAS-accredited microbiological test methods for food, beverage, cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.

Both laboratories are accredited by the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) as meeting the technical competency requirements of the internationally recognised ISO 17025 standard.

View SANAS Accreditation Certificate for Cape Town
View SANAS Accreditation Certificate for Midrand

We have an industry-wide reputation for providing fast, efficient, reliable results and exceptional customer service.

Our Microbiological Services Include:

  • Routine testing of products to establish microbiological safety (without causing food poisoning or spoilage before reaching the desired shelf-life)
  • Monitoring raw materials
  • Challenge and efficacy testing
  • Identifying and quantifying contaminating organisms
  • Microbiological shelf-life testing
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Sterility testing
  • Effluent and waste water control

As we meet the ISO 17025 standard requirements, our certificates of analysis are recognised and accepted worldwide, a benefit to clients who export.

Tests Offered

A list of our SANAS accredited methods is available on our website. To receive detailed information about tests (lead time for results, method reference, sample requirements etc) or a quotation please contact our Marketing & Technical Liaison Department.

Through our R & D Department we stay abreast of the latest methods and techniques and will partner with clients to develop specific/additional test methods currently not offered.

Value-Added Services

In addition to the wide-ranging tests on offer, Swift offers the following services:

  • Sterile sample containers, cooler boxes, ice bricks, swabs and air plates (for environmental monitoring). Please contact our Marketing & Technical Liaison Department to request a quotation.
  • Sample collection
  • Technical support

Technically-qualified consultants can visit clients onsite to discuss/ interpret microbiological test results, demonstrate sampling techniques, assist with problem solving, provide hands-on advice and develop tailor-made sampling/testing plans (to satisfy your hygiene/GMP/HACCP/BRC needs).

 

 

 

 

Sample Collection

Swift has a fleet of highly efficient drivers who will collect samples or deliver sterile sample containers to your premises in the greater Cape Town and Midrand areas. Sample collections from clients beyond these areas are maintained through door-to-door couriers.

Our drivers have been trained in sample handling procedures to ensure that samples arrive at the laboratory timeously and at the right temperature. Each car is fitted with a built-in fridge to ensure sample integrity during transport.

Please contact our Marketing & Technical Liaison Department to request a quotation.

Sample Submission

Samples can be submitted during business hours (08h00 to 16h30) during the week or on Saturdays (by prior arrangement). All new/dormant clients should open an account before submitting samples to the laboratory.

Clients can download a sample submission form (or contact our Marketing & Technical Liaison Department for a copy) to assist with selecting tests when submitting samples to the laboratory.

For Further Information

on Microbiological Testing, please contact our Marketing & Technical Liaison Department.