Mineral Water
Microbiological quality control of bottling facilities and products of the mineral
water industry. Microbiological quality testing of wells. Advice and support in the
establishment of early warning systems for the prevention of microbiological
contamination along the process chai.
Complete control of microbiology
We have been setting standards in microbiological quality assurance for the beverage industry since 1997. Our experts offer customized consulting services to ensure the microbiological quality of your products and strengthen the confidence of your customers. Through comprehensive analysis and monitoring, we support you in identifying and solving microbiological problems at an early stage. Our goal is complete control over the microbiology of your production process.
Well water analysis
The quality of the well determines the quality of the bottled mineral water. However, the microbiology of the well is more than just the sum of the parameters required by law.
We perform continuous microbiological analysis and ensure the microbiological stability of the well water to meet the quality of the final product and the interests of the company.
Bottling quality control
During bottling, various microbiological parameters defined by law must be examined. The absence of pathogenic microorganisms is just as necessary as ensuring that the maximum colony count per sample is not exceeded. Speed and specificity are crucial parameters for the profitability and safety of production.
We support mineral water producers in maintaining the highest hygienic standards during the bottling process.
Contaminations of the process chain
Detecting contaminations in the process chain requires thorough analysis and a cross-process approach.
With modern technologies and an experienced team of experts, we work closely with our customers to analyze the entire production process. This enables quick and precise identification and sustainable elimination of contaminations.
Microbial challenges in the production
The production of mineral water faces demanding microbiological challenges. From analyzing the well water to bottling the final product, the highest hygienic standards must be maintained. This requires comprehensive microbial control and rigorous quality assurance.
Main Challenges:
- Floc-forming and odor-producing bacteria can compromise product quality. Visible turbidity and unpleasant odors are potential consequences.
- Contaminations throughout the production chain lead to costly cleaning and disinfection measures.
- Unknown bacterial contaminations that cannot be detected using conventional methods.
Our solution:
The VIT® technology
Why Use VIT® Gene Probe Technology?
Microorganisms that cause flocculation in still mineral water often cannot be detected using conventional tests. The reason is that they are usually non-culturable. VIT® gene probe technology provides a fast and reliable solution to accurately identify or rule out these microbial causes. It enables direct microbiology, detecting microorganisms directly in the sample.
All living and dead cells in a mineral water sample.
Specific detection of live, unculturable, floc-forming bacteria
Direct proof
Our VIT® gene probe technology makes it possible to quickly and precisely identify floc-forming bacteria that cause visible turbidity. Odour-forming bacteria that produce hydrogen sulphide can also be detected at an early stage. This ensures that countermeasures can be taken immediately to protect product quality.
Non-culturable bacteria
Non-culturable bacteria can lead to visible flakes and sensory impairments. We use VIT® gene probe technology to detect these microorganisms quickly and reliably in order to ensure the microbiological stability of the well and the quality of the bottled mineral water.
Comprehensive monitoring systems
With VIT® Profiling, we offer a detailed step-by-step control that makes it possible to monitor microorganisms throughout the entire production chain on the basis of direct microbiology. This targeted monitoring helps to precisely localize and eliminate sources of contamination before they become a major problem and production has to be shut down.
4D microbiology
The 4D microbiology approach includes spatial analysis, temporal analysis, identification and quantification of microorganisms in samples. It is holistic, solution-oriented and successful.
4D microbiology is precisely the concept that meets the requirements of the new microbiology: powerful and future-orientated.
Comprehensive control with VIT® Profiling
VIT® Profiling is the instrument of vermicon AG's comprehensive microbiological consulting. In order to track down contamination in the process chain, a thorough analysis and cross-process consideration is necessary. With modern, innovative technologies and an experienced team of experts, the entire production process is examined and analyzed in close cooperation with the client. Contamination is detected quickly and specifically and can be eliminated effectively and sustainably.
