FRANCE – bioMérieux, a global manufacturer of in vitro diagnostic solutions, has introduced the Gene-Up Pro HRM, a DNA-based testing method designed to detect heat-resistant molds (HRM) in juices and concentrates.
Developed in collaboration with Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., the new solution reduces testing times from the industry-standard 15 days to 72 hours, offering beverage producers faster quality assurance processes.
Heat-resistant molds are a known cause of spoilage in juice and concentrate manufacturing, creating operational delays and quality concerns.
While not typically linked to public health risks, these molds can survive pasteurization and affect product quality during storage. The Gene-Up Pro HRM detects viable HRM by targeting specific ascospore profiles, a feature that provides more accurate results than conventional yeast and mold test kits.
Validated against established industry methods
The Gene-Up Pro HRM has been validated as equivalent to the Compendium of Methods for the Microbiological Examination of Foods (CMMEF) Chapter 22 Reference Method, a widely recognized standard in food microbiology.
By delivering results in three days instead of two weeks, the test helps producers avoid prolonged warehouse storage or premature shipment of potentially compromised products.
Ben Pascal, Global Head of the xPRO Program at bioMérieux, said the partnership with Ocean Spray was aimed at creating a custom microbiology quality control solution with industry-wide applicability.
Chris McNamara, Senior Manager of Food Safety and Quality Assurance at Ocean Spray, noted that the collaboration addressed evolving spoilage concerns in the juice sector while maintaining consumer trust in product integrity.
Integration with existing bioMérieux quality control tools
The Gene-Up Pro HRM can be integrated with bioMérieux’s Gene-Up Pro ACB, a real-time PCR assay used to detect Alicyclobacillus, a bacterium that causes off-flavors and odors in juice products.
Together, the two assays address multiple spoilage risks and streamline testing within beverage production lines.
Both solutions were developed through bioMérieux’s xPRO Program, which focuses on advancing molecular diagnostics for industrial applications.
Expansion in data and genomics capabilities
In related developments, bioMérieux has expanded its portfolio through the acquisition of Neoprospecta, a Brazil-based biotechnology company specializing in data and genomics solutions for food industry quality assurance.
Neoprospecta’s flagship platform, Neobiome, uses DNA sequencing and biocomputational analysis to help manufacturers track contamination sources, assess microbiological risk, and improve production practices.
This acquisition will initially strengthen bioMérieux’s capabilities in Brazil and Latin America, with plans to integrate Neoprospecta’s technologies into bioMérieux’s global offerings in selected markets.
Founded in 1963, bioMérieux is headquartered in Marcy-l’Étoile, France, and operates in 45 countries, serving more than 160 through a network of distributors.
Its portfolio includes diagnostic systems, reagents, software, and services aimed at improving health outcomes and ensuring food safety.