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Dec 3, 2021 - Cosmetics

Extended preservation challenge tests with Pluralibacter gergoviae

The testing of the microbiological stability of cosmetics is carried out using the Preservative Efficacy Test (PET). This test, also part of the safety report for cosmetics, is generally conducted according to the standard DIN EN ISO 11930.

Five microorganisms are specified as standard (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus brasiliensis). It is advisable to extend this spectrum with additional microorganisms that play or have played a role in production and possible contamination of the products. Recently, particular attention has been given to the bacterium Pluralibacter gergoviae, also due to a new publication by the BfR (see link below). This gram-negative bacterium occasionally causes massive problems in production or operational hygiene.

It is advisable to include this microorganism or others such as Burkholderia cepacia in the test spectrum (ideally as an isolate from a contaminated product).

BAV Institute advises you on all questions related to the topic of preservative efficacy tests and microbiological stability. Contact us, we look forward to hearing from you!

You can find the link to the BfR document here:

www.bfr.bund.de