A strength/weakness analysis of the current procedure was performed by a team of both experts and on the other hand strong analytical thinkers with no experience in the field of paratuberculosis. The project resulted in a number of recommendations with regard to likely risk factors. The sampling and transportation procedure was improved. A new and detailed instruction of this improved procedure was designed and communicated to veterinary practitioners. The handling procedure of the samples in the laboratory was improved at several points. Moreover a new charge of cycloheximide was used to prepare the antimicrobial stock solution and natamycine was added as antimicrobial to the modified Löwenstein-Jensen medium.