The MilkChek PT scheme has been developed to suit the needs of client laboratories, most of which are linked with milk processing facilities, raw milk testing facilities, and contract laboratories throughout New Zealand.
Schedule
Proficiency samples in the MilkChek PT scheme are dispatched each month (refer timetable below). Participants are given eight days to analyse samples and return results.
Materials Description
A range of testing materials are provided covering raw milk and processed milk matrices. These are:
Both reference methods and rapid instrumentation results are collated and reported, assisting laboratories with in-process calibration checks as well as laboratory grading tests.
Performance Reporting & Evaluation
Statistical summaries and reports are e-mailed to participants two days after the due date for results. The reports provide information about the data pool of participating laboratories, the individual laboratory result as compared to the assigned (median) value, a histogram showing distribution of all data, and a run chart tracking historical performance of each laboratory. The statistics used are a robust, well-proven approach.
A rating is given as an interpretation of performance, using set criteria based on a normalised difference value. A score of 'Good', 'Okay' or 'Alert' is issued for every test. We also prepare an annual industry summary report. This includes a review of the summarised data for each test for reproducibility, occurrence of outliers, appropriateness of performance limits, and any testing issues that may have arisen (methodology influence). We also prepare summarised individual laboratory reports.
UHT Reference Samples
UHT Reference Samples for chemistry component testing (fat, protein, lactose, total solids) are available for Laboratories to use as a benchmark for internal quality control and training.
