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Ensuring food safety in ready-to-use food products is crucial, especially in combating pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes. One of the essential tools in this process is the Novasina Aw-meter, which measures the water activity (Aw) of products.

Water activity is a determining factor for the growth of microorganisms. Products with a low Aw value (≤ 0.92) provide a less favorable environment for the growth of Listeria monocytogenes. Using a Novasina Aw-meter helps food producers accurately determine if their products fall within safe limits.

According to FAVV guidelines, ready-to-eat foods are automatically subject to less stricter control measures if the Aw is ≤ 0.92 ( among other criteria). This means that products with these properties need less frequent testing for Listeria monocytogenes, as the low water activity inhibits the growth of this bacteria​​​​.

Regularly measuring and monitoring the aw value with a Novasina Aw-meter offers multiple benefits:

• Preventing Listeria outbreaks: Ensuring that water activity remains within safe limits effectively limits the growth of Listeria monocytogenes.
• Regulatory compliance: Food producers can demonstrate that their products meet the microbiological criteria set out in Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005, which is essential for compliance and obtaining market approval​​.
• Extending shelf life: Products with controlled Aw values generally have a longer shelf life without quality degradation, providing economic benefits for producers.

Using a Novasina Aw-meter is not only a scientific and regulatory necessity but also a practical approach to ensuring food safety and maximizing economic benefits in the food industry.

2023 marks Cytiva’s 7th year of supporting breast cancer breakthroughs with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). In October, with the purchase of specific Cytiva consumables, $1 is contributed to breast cancer research.

The new year always brings new good intentions. Nevertheless, most of us do not keep them up for long, if we are really honest. Therefore, let 2022 be different and protect yourself, your loved ones and your colleagues! With a few small adjustments, we can already make a big difference in terms of safety. Reinforce your good intentions with the face masks, CO₂ meters, air recirculators, self-tests and hand sanitizers from Novolab.

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AW-METERS (WATER ACTIVITY) - QUALITY FROM SWITZERLAND

The Swiss company Novasina specializes in the development and manufacture of accurate measuring systems for the measurement of humidity and material moisture, temperature and differential pressure. 

The new Eppendorf refrigerated benchtop centrifuge 5910 Ri substitutes its predecessor, the 5910 R, and excels in its versatility and convenience. The appliance pairs its high capacity (max. 56 × 15 ml / 28 × 50 ml) and first-rate performance with a compact and ergonomic footprint.