Sampling of products for analytical testing/ examination is carried out on a regular basis in accordance with North Ayrshire Council's Food Sampling Programme.
Sampling helps to:
- monitor manufacturing processes and general hygiene trends
- investigate complaints and incidents of food poisoning
- check the composition and labelling of foods.
Locally produced foods, products of a high risk nature and those prone to fraudulent activity are sampled more frequently. Samples are also procured during routine inspections.
North Ayrshire Council participates in surveys co-ordinated by various bodies including:
Glasgow Scientific Services, a UKAS accredited laboratory, has been appointed to carry out analysis.