Sampling system and method of using the same

A sampling system for sampling a fluid from a vessel, wherein the sampling system comprises:

• a sterile dispenser assembly operatively connected to the vessel, the sterile dispenser assembly comprising a valve, a membrane, and a needle, wherein the valve comprises a valve body and a valve stem disposed at least partially within the valve body, the valve stem comprising a sidewall defining a central lumen and at least one opening in the sidewall, wherein the valve is adapted to prevent fluid flow through the lumen when the at least one opening is disposed within the valve body and permit fluid flow through the lumen when the at least one opening is exposed from the valve body, wherein the valve is essentially free of a spring, and wherein the needle is operatively connected to the valve to dispense fluid from the vessel.

A sampling system for sampling a fluid from a vessel, wherein the sampling system comprises:

• a detachable sterile sampling container assembly comprising a sampling container, a membrane attached to the sampling container, and a sampling container housing enclosing the sampling container,
• wherein the sampling container housing comprises a compressible portion having a deflated configuration and an expanded configuration, and
• wherein, when the compressible portion is in a deflated configuration, the compressible portion pushes the sampling container through the membrane into proximity with a needle, allowing the needle to dispense the fluid into the sampling container while maintaining a closed aseptic system.