Every snapfresh meal undergoes rigorous food safety testing to ensure it is safe, high quality and ready to enjoy.

At the heart of this process is our in-house microbiology and food safety laboratory. Led by industry experts, the laboratory supports a quality assurance program that covers everything from supplier audits and allergen management to traceability and compliance with food safety standards.

Testing every step of the way

Steven Thygesen, Manager, Quality Assurance at snapfresh, describes the laboratory as a hive of activity.

The team tests environmental swabs, ready-to-eat ingredients and finished meals as part of snapfresh’s positive release program. Products are only approved for distribution once all required results meet our strict standards.

“Our work ensures our meals are safe before they leave our doors,” Steven says. “Constant testing and vigilance help us identify issues before they reach the customer.”

With more than 12 million ready-made meals produced each year, maintaining high food safety standards is essential.

Detecting invisible risks

Every day, the microbiology team tests for potential hazards, including Salmonella, Listeria and E. coli.

Each sample is carefully tracked, prepared and tested using specialised growth media and rapid antigen technology. Meals are only released once every result signals the all-clear.

“Most people have no idea how much science and technology go into producing their meal,” Steven says. “Every clear result is another win for safety.”

In 2025 alone, the team tested 3,586 environmental swabs, with approximately 15 swabs assessed each day.

Responding quickly when something is not right

When a result does not meet requirements, the team acts immediately.

This can include deep cleaning, additional testing, working closely with suppliers or withholding products that do not meet snapfresh’s standards.

The laboratory also works alongside our operations and quality teams to share data, identify trends and continuously strengthen our food safety controls.

“Food safety is all about teamwork,” Steven says. “Together, we stay ahead of potential issues and keep our meals safe for our customers.”

Technology supporting safer meals

Automated ELISA technology is another important part of the laboratory’s testing capability.

The technology helps detect Salmonella and Listeria through a controlled process involving sample growth, heating, washing and analysis. This enables the team to deliver accurate results efficiently.

For Steven, the impact of the work is what makes it rewarding.

“It is satisfying to know our work directly protects people,” he says. “Every test is another step towards producing a safe meal.”

The science may happen behind the scenes, but its impact can be found in every snapfresh meal. Through expertise, teamwork and constant vigilance, our microbiology and quality teams help ensure food safety remains at the centre of everything we do.