Packaging and microbiological cleanliness

Product packaging plays an important role not only in marketing but, above all, in protecting the contents against contamination and unfavorable external conditions. Not all packaging is produced or stored in an aseptic environment, which in turn favors the growth of undesirable microorganisms.

Companies producing or shipping products such as food, cosmetics or medicines should control the quality of packaging in terms of microbiological purity, because it directly affects the quality and safety of use of the products. This is extremely important in the case of natural and ecological products that do not contain preservatives. This makes these products more susceptible to microbial contamination. The use of natural cosmetics, medicinal products and organic food is becoming more and more popular, and consumers also pay attention to the type of packaging. Therefore, we can safely conclude that in order to protect the health of customers and the company's reputation, the microbiological purity of packaging should be controlled. This contributes to increased safety and satisfaction of recipients and producers.

Test description 

Microbiological purity tests of packaging allow for determining the level of contamination or its absence with individual microorganisms, depending on the method used and the type of test:

• Quantitative tests – allow for determining the total number of aerobic microorganisms, yeast-like fungi and molds
• Qualitative tests – allow for detecting the presence of pathogenic microorganisms such as: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Salmonella, etc.

Packaging tests are performed using the rinsing or imprinting method and are conducted in accordance with ISO or Pharmacopoeia standards. The results are converted into 1 package in the case of the rinsing method and per surface (e.g. 100 cm2) in the case of the contact method.
The results of the microbiological test of packaging allow for determining whether there is a risk of product contamination, and in the absence thereof, they provide a certain basis for their safe use. Carrying out such tests helps manufacturers gain new customers, who increasingly pay attention to testing the product and guaranteeing correct results. It is therefore worth contacting a trustworthy laboratory that has experience in this area and the necessary certificates and already at the stage of packaging the product be calm about your own interests and, above all, the interests of consumers.