Neogen Europe’s Soleris technology is now used by approximately 200 of the world’s largest food and nutraceutical companies to detect indicator microbes in a fraction of the time needed for traditional methods. The Soleris system is a rapid optical system for the detection of microbial contamination based on an innovative application of classical microbiology. The assay measures microbial growth by monitoring biochemical reactions that generate a colour change in the media as micro-organisms grow. The sensitivity of the system allows detection in a fraction of the time needed for traditional methods, with less labour and handling time.
Soleris features the quickest automated quality indicator system protocols, including Yeast & Mould in 60-72 hours; Total Viable Count (TVC) in 6-8 hours; Coliforms in 9-10 hours; E.Coli in 7-10 hours; and Lactic Acid Bacteria in 30-35 hours. Using the Soleris system enables operators to easily identify, monitor and map problematic spots in their facilities. With the ability to provide trend analysis and multiple format reports with a simple click of a computer mouse, the system helps to ensure that all critical control points are stable and alerts the user to any possible deviation from established quality standards. Approximately 80-85% of all microbiology testing is for spoilage/ indicator organisms. These are classes of micro-organisms that are responsible for the majority of food product recalls and therefore considerable economic losses.
The Soleris direct vial is based upon the well-known process that bacteria feed on sugars, convert those sugars into acids and lower the pH of their culture media. A critical level of bacterial growth will cause the pH indicator to change colour and cause the Soleris system to record a positive result for that sample.