WALTHAM, Mass. — Thermo Fisher Scientific has launched the Thermo Scientific SureTect Beverage Spoilage Multiplex qPCR Assay, an industry-first, multi-parameter molecular test developed in collaboration with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. Now part of the Thermo Scientific SureTect PCR System, the new assay is designed to detect spoilage organisms earlier in the production process and streamline quality control for beverage manufacturers.
Product recalls tied to microbial contamination remain a persistent challenge for the beverage industry, threatening product integrity, brand equity, and revenue. Traditional culture-based testing methods can take days to deliver results and may fail to identify key spoilage micro-organisms, increasing the risk of costly recalls and consumer distrust.
The SureTect Beverage Spoilage Multiplex qPCR Assay identifies more than 100 strains of spoilage-causing yeasts, molds, lactic acid bacteria, and acetic acid bacteria in a single reaction. No other test currently on the market offers this breadth of detection in one assay. By consolidating multiple testing parameters, the system can reduce testing time by up to 50 percent compared to conventional methods, offering manufacturers faster batch-release decisions and consumers greater assurance of product quality. The all-in-one format also supports cost efficiencies and improved environmental sustainability.
“Product recalls don’t just impact the consumer – brands face both financial and reputational harm, making the true cost of a recall much more expensive than the product lost,” said Chris Armstrong, president of microbiology, Thermo Fisher Scientific. “This qPCR-based assay is part of Thermo Fisher’s commitment to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer, and helps brands avoid risk, protect their customers and keep their products on shelves by providing a faster and more accurate result on their batch tests.”
Dr. Raul Mesa, senior manager QESH at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, said, “Staying ahead of spoilage is key for us. Working with Thermo Fisher lets us use the best science to make sure every bottle that reaches a customer meets our high standards. High-throughput, reliable and secure testing solutions are essential as we look to always ensure the perfect product for our consumers.”
As beverage companies expand their portfolios with limited-edition and seasonal products, rapid and reliable microbial testing has become even more essential. The Thermo Scientific SureTect PCR System aims to give both global beverage groups and emerging brands access to consistent, high-quality spoilage detection to help safeguard production and maintain consumer trust.
