Case Study: Gas formation in bottled juice
The Challenge
A few weeks after packaging, a client received complaints that their hot-packed bottled juice product had visible cloudiness and gas formation. The client mentioned they had recently changed their hot-packaging protocol and were unsure if the foreign material was a result of the new procedures. To avoid recalls and consumer harm, they asked us to identify the source of cloudiness and suggest potential changes to prevent future issues.
Our Approach
Experts at Eurofins knew that cloudiness and gas formation are common signs of microbial contamination. Identification of the microbe would give hints as to where it originated and how to prevent similar contamination in the future. To identify the microbe, we started with a variety of yeast/mold culturing and testing techniques, including multiple media and growth conditions, to determine its growth habits and colony morphology. Microscopy and gene sequence-based ID (16S) were used with isolated colonies to determine the specific type of microbial contamination.
The Solution
Using a mix of microbiology tests, our team identified a fungal contaminant in the bottled juice that commonly appears with ineffective hot-filling procedures. We worked with our client to modify their packaging procedures, and we used careful method validation studies to ensure the new approach prevented all microbial growth going forward.
Our Team
Eurofins SF Analytical is renowned for successfully investigating the most challenging problems in food, beverages, and packaging; including product recall support, insurance, and legal investigation. Our experts’ range of expertise from microbiology to analytical chemistry coupled with years of experience makes them the ideal team for foreign material and contamination investigations. Click here to connect with an expert, or visit our website to learn about the full range of offerings.
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