Developed over 35 ago, American-made Whirl-Pak® bags were the first sterile sample bags on the market.
- Puncture Proof Tabs
- Guaranteed Sterile
- Reduced Storage Space
- Easy Identification
- Leakproof Closure
- Development of Whirl-PakŪ Bags
The were designed to provide milk milk hauliers with a container for collecting samples of bulk produced milk. Whirl-PakŪ bags made possible the "universal sample system".
This means that the single sample can be used for all tests required for quality control, product content and legal complience. Whirl-PakŪ sample bags are made from a blended virgin, low-density polyethylene. The blend gives the bags two important characteristics:
- Exceptionally clear film, for maximum sample visibility
- Superior strength, producing an unbreakable sample container
They may be used for taking samples of liquids, semi-solids or solids. Whirl-PakŪ are patented under US Patent No. 2,973,131 and other patents pending. The film thickness varies from 2.25 mils to 4 mils depending on the size and style. Because of the blended polyethylene, a high mil thickness is not required to achieve optimum strength.
Punture Proof Tabs
All Whirl-PakŪ bags feature "Puncture Proof Tabs". This patented process means that the tape on the tab extends past the ends of the wire. The result is no sharp points which could puncture the bags, scratch a person's hands, or puncture gloves. This important feature is found only on Whirl-PakŪ, making it easier and safer to use than any other sampling bag. The "Puncture Proof Tabs" process is patented under US Patent No. 5,180,229.
Guaranteed Sterile
- Ethylene Oxide Gas. Whirl-PakŪ bags are sterilized with ethylene oxide gas by an independant, ISO certified sterilization company. This saves valuable preparation time and elimates concern about sample integrity. Only Whirl-PakŪ bags go throuh this separate sterilization step after manufacturing; if you are not using a Whirl-PakŪ bag, you are probably using a bag that has not gone through this important sterilization procedure.
- Sterility Documentation. Documentation of sterility is available for each box by individual lot number. This documentation, provided by a separate ISO certified testing laboratory, verifies sterility for the entire load.
- Look for the Whirl-PakŪ Name. Each and every bag is clearly marked with "Whirl-PakŪ" on the bag. If it doesn't say Whirl-PakŪ ...it's not our patented sterilized bag.
- Standard Methods Says -- Standard Methods (18th Edition, 1992, section 9060A, sample containers) states "For some applications, samples may be collected in pre-sterilized plastic bags." Whirl-PakŪ bags meet this description.
If You Have to Go to Court -- For your peace of mind, (as well as following good laboratory practices), should you be challenged in court, always use Whirl-PakŪ bags.
Reduced Storage Space
- Whirl-PakŪ bags use only 10% or less space than other containers.
- Valuable space savings in the lab, vehicle, warehouse, etc
- Significent savings on shipping costs
Easy Identification
- A felt-tip marker can be used to write on the plain bags
- Regular pens or pencils can be used on the special white write-on surface
- Positive ID eliminates confusion and mistakes during testing and analysis procedures
Leakproof closure
By whirling or tightly folding the tab over three times, the Whirl-PakŪ bag becomes a leakproof container, which:
- Eliminates loss of a valuable sample, mess, and a possible need to collect a new sample.
- Prevents impurities from entering the bag and contaminating the sample.
Importance of Sample Collection
Proper sampling procedures are of vital importance. Laborator findings are completely dependent on the quality of the sample collected. It is imperative that each sample be representative of the lot from which it came, and that it arrives at the laboratory in the same condition it was in at the collection point. There should be no change in chemical, physical or biological character. All Whirl-PakŪ bags are made in the USA.