Is pre-labeling of sample bottles allowed before reaching the dairy?

Pre-labeling of sample bottles before reaching the dairy is not allowed, as it poses a significant risk of misidentification, contamination, or errors in the sampling process. Accurate and reliable sampling is critical in dairy operations to ensure product quality and safety. Labeling samples prior to their collection can lead to discrepancies if the samples are mixed up, potentially tracing back to improper testing and quality control failures.

When sample bottles are labeled appropriately, they must reflect the actual conditions of the sample timing, location, and batches from which they were drawn. This ensures full transparency and traceability throughout the testing process. Avoiding pre-labeling helps maintain the integrity of the sampling procedure and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and best practices, which are essential for maintaining public health and trust in dairy products.