ATP is an acronym that stands for "Adenosine Triphosphate" and is something that is present in all living cells. Because of this, most of the foods we eat will already contain some level of ATP. This is okay, as it has occurred naturally. However, ATP testing materials and related products are used to determine how much of this ATP is left behind on a surface after food processing has taken place (which itself can be an indication of how clean an environment is), whether or not cleaning techniques being employed by staff are effective, and more.

ATP testing products can help determine whether or not a particular surface (like a food processing machine) can potentially support the type of bacteria growth that could ultimately make end customers sick or contaminate additional food. Because of that, there are a few key things about ATP testing that you'll absolutely want to keep in mind moving forward.

All About ATP Testing Products

When it comes to the types of products that are actually used to conduct these tests, there are a few key options to keep in mind. One is the EnSURE Multi-Parameter Luminometer (Hygiena), which uses just a single instrument to collect, thoroughly analyze, and comprehensively report data from multiple quality indicators in a lab. The major benefit here is that you get access to real-time ATP results and same-shift microbial indicator results, giving you immediate access to all of the actionable information you need to make the most informed decisions possible at all times.

The LuciPac A3 Sanitation System detects ATP+ADP+AMP in a single swab and was recently found to be “a more sensitive and reliable indicator of sanitation” than a conventional ATP assay. It provides next generation testing that ultimately leads to safer food preparation practices and consumption.

The Popularity of ATP Testing

At this point, whether or not you should do ATP testing isn't really a recommendation. It is a requirement, particularly for companies that need to make sure they remain compliant with government regulations like HACCP. Generally speaking, any organization that processes food with any type of water activity, or uses surfaces that can potentially sustain harmful organisms, already does ATP testing on a regular basis. It's very rare to find a company that doesn't, and indeed these are typically only businesses dealing with highly processed materials. But even then, going through ATP testing is very much a case of "better safe than sorry."

When you conduct ATP testing, however, keep in mind that tests should never be conducted in direct sunlight. Doing so will typically distort the results, meaning that you don't necessarily have a complete picture of precisely what you're dealing with. In certain cases, you may have to conduct ATP testing outdoors. This is okay, so long as it cannot be avoided. In that situation, you would definitely want to both active your ATP testing products and use them out of direct sunlight if possible.

ATP Testing Best Practices

For the absolute best results, ATP testing should usually be performed just after you've cleaned a particular surface or piece of equipment, but before the sanitation process has begun in earnest. This is an important distinction, as many commercially available sanitizers are less effective when product residues have been left behind on a surface after processing. Because of this, it's important to first clean a surface, then perform ATP testing, then make any necessary adjustments and potentially clean again, followed by going through the sanitation process like you normally would.

It's important to note, however, that most sanitizers will not negatively impact the future accuracy of your ATP testing products. If you're already using high-quality products and you've followed all manufacturer directions and recommendations, you really shouldn't have anything to worry about to that end.

Learn About Weber Scientific

At Weber Scientific, we've worked hard for decades to become one of the most trusted names in not only ATP testing supplies but also labware, laboratory supplies and related products operating anywhere in the United States today. We understand how important ATP testing is - not just in terms of creating better, safer products, but with regards to your ability to run a successful organization for years to come.

At the same time, if you can't depend on the tools used for ATP testing, you also can't trust the results. More than anything, we want to eliminate this doubt from your mind so that you and all of your colleagues are free to perform all the testing and related tasks that you'd like without compromise or worry.

If you're interested in finding out more about our ATP testing products and related options, or if you'd just like to discuss your own specific needs with someone in a bit more detail, we encourage you to browse our website. While you're there, consider signing up for our free Weber Scientific newsletter so you can get updates on all important company and industry topics delivered right to your inbox.