Method of fluid sampling

Abstract

A method of using an aseptic sampling arrangement. The sampling arrangement includes a septum cartridge and a securing element for use with a fluid enclosure. A locking arrangement is provided to allow selective access to the septum cartridge and the securing element. The sampling arrangement further includes a needle, a tube, and a collection bag. The sampling arrangement can be used to monitor the quality of a fluid product. The method of monitoring includes obtaining a fluid product sample from the fluid enclosure within the collection bag. The collection bag is then incubated for a period of time during which oxygen permeates the bag to simulate post-pasteurizing conditions and/or pre-pasteurizing conditions of the fluid product. The method further includes monitoring the level of contamination detected within the fluid product sample.

1 . A method of monitoring quality of a fluid product, the method comprising the steps of: 
 a) providing an aseptic sampling arrangement including a septum and a collection bag;    b) obtaining a sample of the fluid product by aseptically collecting the fluid product in the collection bag;    b) incubating the collection bag for a period of time; and    c) monitoring the level of contamination within the sample of fluid product during the period of time.    
   
   
       2 . A transportable fluid system, comprising: 
 a) a transportable fluid vessel having an aperture that provides access to an interior volume;    b) an aseptic sampling arrangement configured to provide aseptic sampling of a fluid contained within the interior volume of the transportable fluid vessel, the aseptic sampling arrangement including a septum and a securing element, the septum being secured within the aperture of the fluid vessel by the securing element, the septum including a penetrable body constructed for penetration of a needle therethrough; and    c) a locking arrangement that provides selective access to the aseptic sampling arrangement.    
   
   
       3 . A aseptic sampling arrangement for a fluid enclosure, comprising: 
 a) a septum configured for receipt within an aperture of a fluid enclosure, the septum including a boot, the boot being constructed to seal the aperture of the fluid enclosure and provide for penetration of a needle therethrough; and    b) a locking arrangement configured to provide selective access to the septum.