Cheese defects resulting from abnormal gas formation, whether excessive or insufficient, can compromise product integrity, shelf life, and consumer confidence. For example, eye development in Swiss and Emmental cheeses is both a visual hallmark and a sensory signature. The size, shape, and distribution of these eyes signal not only aesthetic success but microbial precision and process…
Whey processing during cheesemaking is a balance of biological precision, equipment design, and time-sensitive process control. While modern production facilities have mastered the major threats to quality and efficiency, even in the most advanced plants, one subtle but insidious threat continues to compromise extended production runs: biofilms in the whey processing line. These resilient microbial…
In juice processing, microbial contamination remains a leading cause of product spoilage and shelf life failure. Much of the scientific attention in juice quality has centered on Alicyclobacillus (ACB), a heat-resistant, acidophilic bacterium that produces off-odors reminiscent of medicinal or smoky taint. ACB is a legitimate concern, especially for shelf-stable juices subjected to pasteurization, but it is…
Detection of microbial contamination is essential to ensuring liquid food and beverage safety—and protecting your brand. Inline sampling provides a reliable, real-time method to identify contamination risks early and maintain control over your process. I recently joined QualiTru as Director of Business Development because I’m passionate about working with companies that make a real impact….
Biofilms, resilient bacterial communities encased in a self-produced matrix, pose a significant threat to dairy farming. These microbial formations develop on surfaces that are frequently exposed to moisture and organic material, making milking equipment an ideal breeding ground. Once established, biofilms are notoriously difficult to remove, resisting standard cleaning protocols and allowing pathogenic bacteria to…
With over 30 years in food and beverage manufacturing, I have relied on innovative solutions to enhance product quality, food safety, and operational efficiency — critical factors in preventing a potential food safety recall. One such indispensable tool has been QualiTru sampling systems. Their proven technology has enabled me to collect real-time samples, providing critical…
In industrial microbiology and biotechnology, precise bioreactor sampling plays a critical role in ensuring product quality, optimizing processes, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. Sampling provides vital insights into microbial growth, nutrient consumption, and metabolite production, allowing producers to fine-tune operations for maximum efficiency and consistent results. Sampling bioreactors also needs to be done in a way that…
The production of no and low-alcohol (NoLo) beers has gained significant traction as consumers increasingly seek healthier, lifestyle-friendly beverage options. In the evolving world of NoLo beer production, maintaining strict microbiological control is essential to ensuring quality, consistency, and safety. However, this segment presents unique microbiological challenges compared to traditional beers. The absence of alcohol, higher residual…
In food, beverage, and dairy production, implementing effective sampling strategies for contamination control is crucial for maintaining product safety, ensuring compliance, and enhancing process efficiency. By tailoring sampling plans to address specific challenges, producers can detect contamination risks early and make proactive decisions to protect product quality. From biofilm detection to monitoring critical control points…
The quality of processed dairy products is inextricably tied to the quality of raw milk at production, and throughout pre-processing storage and handling. Pasteurization, while quite literally a lifesaver, is no magic bullet when it comes to improving quality. As domestic and international markets for US dairy products evolve, expectations of increasing shelf life are…
Founded in 1983, QualiTru Sampling Systems (formerly known as QMI) is the trusted partner that delivers accurate, in-process aseptic, representative, sanitary, and hygienic sampling solutions for the dairy, beverage, and liquid food industries. Read more…
