Preservatives are antimicrobials added to formulations of nonsterile pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, health products, and more to inhibit the growth of microorganisms or reduce their numbers. Perritt Laboratories can help you determine whether your preservatives are effective throughout your product’s shelf life.
Our FDA-registered, cGMP-compliant, and ISO 17025:2017 laboratory environment offers accurate testing and robust documentation to manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies across the country and around the world. Brands choose us because we have more than 50 years of experience in the field, a trusted name in microbiology testing, and robust quality systems.
We offer Ph. Eur. 5.1.3 testing, or European Pharmacopeia testing, which determines whether a formulation’s preservatives prevent microbial proliferation over 28 days. Companies also come to us for Japanese Pharmacopeia (JP) 19 testing and USP <51> testing, also known as Antimicrobial Effectiveness Testing (AET), which is used in multi-dose products to ensure a formulation’s preservatives can sufficiently reduce the risk of microbial growth with regular use.
During testing, samples are deliberately contaminated with specific types of mold, bacteria, and yeast. The samples are kept in light- and temperature-controlled conditions and are tested at specific time points to measure microbial counts. The specific organisms introduced and the time frame depend on the compendia or standards used.
Our ability to develop custom studies and methods can be especially useful for brands. During product development, for example, we can create tailored or modified tests to help you evaluate multiple preservative formulations and choose the most effective one. If you face unique challenges, such as an especially sensitive formulation or a new packaging type, we can develop a solution.
Our microbiologists are proud to support global and national businesses across industries:
We offer tests in accordance with methods outlined in:
When you work with us, we use a consultative approach to ensure you remain compliant and have access to the data you need. Our documentation and reports include details about methodologies, results, and recommendations, so you receive a full picture of your preservatives’ effectiveness.
If you need to determine whether preservatives used in your formulations and products can prohibit microbial growth or reduce microorganisms, our microbiologists are here to help. Contact us to discuss your needs and learn how our services keep your customers and brand safer.
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