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Accelerated Shelf Life Testing

Here at PCAS our standard shelf life testing consist of:

  • pH
  • Water Activity
  • Yeast
  • Mold
  • Aerobic Plate Count
  • Optional addition of Organoleptic Acceptability: texture, appearance, and smell

Our process is done in our FDA compliant laboratory using approved methods. Additional testing might be required, based on the type of product/ingredients. These will be discussed during our initial consultation. Additional consultation might be needed before, during and after the shelf life study has been completed.

Accelerated Shelf Life Testing involves storing a product at elevated temperatures to speed up the natural aging process. By accelerating the chemical, physical, and microbiological changes that may occur over time, this type of study can provide an estimate of a product's shelf life in a significantly shorter timeframe than a traditional Real-Time Shelf Life Study.

Accelerated studies are often used to obtain preliminary shelf-life data more quickly, while real-time studies provide confirmation of product stability under normal storage conditions. However, not all products are suitable candidates for accelerated shelf-life testing. Following an initial consultation, our team will evaluate your product and determine whether an accelerated shelf-life study is appropriate.

While either study can be conducted independently, we generally recommend performing both Accelerated and Real-Time Shelf Life Studies concurrently. Accelerated testing can provide an initial shelf-life estimate much sooner, allowing you to make informed decisions about your product's marketability and storage requirements. The real-time study then serves to validate and support that shelf-life claim under the product's intended storage conditions, providing the strongest overall shelf-life data package.

Sample Submission Requirements

  • Submit 8 samples in the exact packaging that will be used for the final retail product.
  • Each sample must contain a minimum of 4 oz of product.
  • Samples should be shipped to arrive Monday through Friday to ensure proper handling upon receipt.
  • If your product is packaged in glass containers, please individually bubble wrap each container and clearly label the shipping box "Contains Glass."

Confidentially with PCAS Labs.

PCAS welcomes and provides NDA’s for all of our customers ensuring that your products ingredients/recipes are never shared with anyone! All of your company information will remain safe, you can count on that.

How it Works

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