Manufacturers are responsible for determining the shelf-life of foods they produce according to national and international food safety and hygiene regulations.
Predictive models can help determine shelf-life but laboratory testing of microbiological, chemical or sensory indicators within a food over time is often necessary. This service is needed for new product formulations, to verify a new production or storage method, or a change in distribution conditions. Studies of this type are designed to help ensure quality throughout the lifecycle of your product.
Our Shelf Life Testing Services
Mérieux NutriSciences takes a holistic approach to shelf-life testing that provides insight into all aspects of the food. Our experts in South Africa will design a robust shelf life study that encompasses all applicable testing. For many products, this will be a combination of microbiological, chemical, and sensory testing. All aspects are considered when determining the shelf life of a product. In many cases, shelf life testing can be conducted in real-time and accelerated conditions.
Shelf life testing methods include but are not limited to:
- Organoleptic parameters: appearance, colour, odour, flavour
- Texture
- Consumer Acceptability
- Physical-chemical parameters: pH value, viscosity, density, emulsion stability
- Microbiological parameters: microbial count
- Lipid oxidation
Mérieux NutriSciences South Africa’s reliable food testing laboratory network provides manufacturers with advanced scientific capabilities. Contact our experts to discuss the shelf-life of your food product and how we can help you.
