Page 67 - FoodFocusThailand No.231 June 2025

STRONG QC & QA

How ATP Testing Works in เอกสารอ้างอิง / References
Air Monitoring 1. HACCP Assurance. (2023, March 16). Air Sampling in Food Manufacturing Facilities. Retrieved
ATP is a molecule found in all living from https://www.haccpassurance.com/2023/03/16/air-sampling-in-food-manufacturing-
facilities/
cells, including bacteria, mold, and 2. Rapid Microbiology. Air Samplers. Retrieved from https://www.rapidmicrobiology.com/
food residues. In air monitoring, ATP test-method/air-samplers
testing detects the presence of organic 3. AirCheck Lab. Active vs. Passive Sampling. Retrieved from https://www.airchecklab.com/
matter in the air, offering a quick environmental-monitoring/active-vs-passive-sampling/
snapshot of overall cleanliness. The 4. 800EZMicro. (n.d.). Airborne Microbiology: Active vs. Passive Sampling. Retrieved from
https://800ezmicro.com/about-us/blog/220-airborne-microbiology-active-vs-passive-sampling
process typically involves pulling air
through a filter, then swabbing that
filter and analyzing it with a handheld
luminometer. The device measures More Information Service Info C008
light produced by a reaction between
ATP and a special enzyme, resulting
in seconds. A high reading signals
potential contamination—whether
from microbes, food particles, or other
biological residues. While it doesn’t
identify specific organisms or
distinguish between live and dead
cells, ATP testing is a fast, helpful tool
for early detection and rapid response,
especially in high-risk or time-sensitive
areas like packaging lines and post-
cleaning inspections.
Advantages:
• Results in minutes, compared to
2–3 days for culture-based methods
• Allows real-time decision-
making in high-risk environments
• Complements traditional
microbial methods for rapid risk
screening
Limitations:
• Non-specific: ATP testing detects
biological matter but not species
• Doesn’t distinguish between live
and dead organisms
• Best used as an early warning
tool, not a replacement for full microbial
analysis
Despite its limitations, ATP testing
is gaining traction as a rapid hygiene
indicator, particularly in facilities that
demand fast turnaround for corrective
actions.
The best air monitoring programs
combine passive and active methods,
backed by rapid tools like ATP testing.
Your approach should match your
facility’s unique risks and operations.
Monitoring air isn’t a one-time job—it’s
an ongoing process that grows with
your business. Ultimately, it’s not just
about safety—it’s about trust, quality,
and long-term confidence in every
product you make.

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