Measuring what matters, where it matters

What lies beneath

A sampling plan is more than a schedule of test moments. It requires:

• Alignment with risks, processes, and products
• Insight into legal, certification, and customer requirements
• Knowledge of microbiology, chemistry, and material behaviour
• Clear action criteria in case of deviations

Only then do analyses become meaningful and deliver value for risk management, product improvement, and customer trust.

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Leadership means steering on prevention

An effective sampling plan does more than ensure compliance. It drives continuous improvement. Leadership means using data, recognising trends, making informed decisions on testing frequencies and methods, and optimising processes based on facts. Sampling becomes more than a laboratory activity. It becomes an integral part of quality control.

Three levels of development

Compliance | Raw material and finished product monitoring

Having a structured plan for sampling raw materials, finished products, packaging materials, and the production environment. Frequencies, parameters, and test methods are aligned with legislation, GFSI standards, and customer requirements. Deviations lead to defined actions and are documented.

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Compliance+ | Supplier and process monitoring

Using trend analysis and root cause analysis for deviations. Sampling is not only used for control, but also as feedback for process management and supplier evaluation. Laboratory data is actively used to reduce risks and improve the reliability of processes and supply chain partners.

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Strategic | Risk based sampling strategy

Developing a data driven, risk based sampling plan based on hazard analyses, historical results, business impact, and critical control points. Focus is placed on optimising frequencies, laboratory selection, test methods, and outsourcing.

The goal is maximum control with minimal waste of time and cost.

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What it delivers

A well structured sampling plan provides:

• Demonstrable food safety and quality assurance
• Efficiency in laboratory costs and sampling activities
• Early detection of risks and trends
• Strong substantiation towards auditors and customers
• Improved processes and stronger supplier relationships

Measuring is not just an obligation. It is an opportunity to gain control over quality.

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Where do you stand?

Are you still testing based on standard frequencies, or already steering on data, risk, and optimisation? Is your plan aligned with your processes or mainly with certification requirements?

Mérieux NutriSciences | Expert Partners helps you turn sampling into a strategic control tool that is practical, modular, and tailored to your organisation.