News

Believe it or not, 2026 has arrived! And it’s time to take action.

As with any new year, it’s natural to reflect on what we can do differently, both personally and professionally. This way, you can embark on an even more successful year than the last.

For those of us in the pharmaceutical microbiology sectors, January offers a unique opportunity to reassess strategies and plan for the year and beyond.

In the first blog of the year, Pharmig explores how you can embrace innovation and make the most of 2026.

Embrace a Fresh Mindset in 2026

Any new year is a great time to evaluate and adopt new habits, but the start of 2026 is especially a great time to adopt a fresh mindset.

The challenges of the past year, whether regulatory changes, supply chain disruptions, or the ongoing push for innovation, provide valuable lessons. Taking time to review these experiences and exploring the latest microbiology publications UK can help identify opportunities for improvement and ways to streamline processes.

It’s also a good time to set realistic but achievable goals for the months ahead. This will keep you and your colleagues focused and on track, even through the busy months.

So, what’s on the roster for your team?

Read more about embracing the New Year now.

Plan Ahead Strategically

Another practical way to approach the new year is by rethinking how we plan.

Traditional planning is helpful, but it often focuses on short-term targets. Taking a forward-looking perspective can unlock more meaningful results for long-term plans and your career as a whole.

Consider mapping out key priorities for 2026 that align with broader industry trends. This could include:

• Identifying skills and resources needed to meet your goals (especially ones that worked well in 2025)
• Planning attendance at key microbiology conferences and industry events
• Exploring new collaborations or partnerships with professional peers
• Updating processes to improve efficiency and compliance
• Notes of regulatory or technological developments

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you return to work in January, but this proactive approach ensures your team is prepared for whatever the year may bring.

Following Innovation and Continued Learning

Equally important is fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation, no matter which area of microbiology you’re focused on.

The pharmaceutical microbiology industry thrives on knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Attending conferences, workshops, and networking events can provide fresh perspectives and build vital professional connections. If you’re on the fence, this is your sign to book!

Pharmig is here to make your 2026 planning easier. We’ve got a full roster of microbiology events, including the following:

WEBINAR: The human skin microbiome: What has the 20 years of meta genomics taught us?

Wednesday 28th January 2026, 2pm-3pm BST

MEETING: Plant Hygiene Microbiology & Engineering

Thursday 12th February – Solihull

MEETING: A Practical Introduction to Sterile Manufacturing

25th March – Solihull

Final Words

Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the sector, with a new range of events and training opportunities on the horizon.

Planning your calendar now ensures you make the most of these opportunities, from networking and professional growth to staying ahead of regulatory and technological changes.

Hopefully, we’ll see you and your colleagues at one of the Pharmig events in the next year!

Go back to the Pharmig blog.

Join Pharmig now.

As the year draws to a close, the team at Pharmig would like to take a moment to wish all our members and colleagues across the pharmaceutical microbiology industry a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

But before you think about catching up on research or doing some extra admin jobs throughout the holidays, this is your sign to think again.

This festive season is the perfect opportunity to pause and recharge after a year of hard work. Taking time off actually has benefits, so rest now to come back at 100% in January.

Here’s everything you need to know about relaxing over the holiday break.

Reflecting on a Year of Achievements

At Pharmig, we are proud to support our members with training and networking opportunities throughout the year, and we look forward to continuing this into 2026.

Taking time to reflect on successes (both big and small) can help us appreciate the collective efforts that drive our industry forward. It’s also important to reflect on your growth over the year, inside and outside of the workplace!

Whether it’s completing a challenging project, mentoring a colleague, improving compliance procedures, working on quality control microbiology, or even managing to get in a workout before the office (sometimes), every achievement contributes to the overall success and well-being of professionals in our sector.

For us, we’re looking back at the recent Pharmig India conference and at all of our UK events and training programs. What a year it has been!

The Importance of Rest Over the Festive Season

While the festive period is often busy, be it with last-minute tasks or Christmas shopping, it’s also essential to rest and recharge.

Overworking during the holiday season can impact well-being and productivity in the new year, leading to higher stress levels and potential burnout.

Pharmig encourages all professionals to take this time to relax and enjoy quality moments with family and friends. Even if you feel hesitant to take a holiday, this is your sign to really unplug before 2026 gets started.

Here are a few ways to make the most of your festive break:

• Disconnect from work emails and calls and allow yourself a proper mental break.
• Spend quality time with loved ones. From festive gatherings to quiet moments at home, connection is everything over the holidays.
• Reflect on personal and professional goals. If you really fancy doing something work-related, skip the paperwork and set positive intentions for 2026 or check out some of the recent microbiology publications.
• Enjoy simple pleasures. This is your time off! Go all-in on the festive treats, your usual hobbies, or seasonal traditions that you can’t do in the summer.

Even small steps to rest and recharge can make a big difference in how you start the new year.

So, put your feet up, even if it’s only just for 15 minutes.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we step into 2026, we’re excited about the opportunities the new year will bring and look forward to working alongside you to meet the challenges and successes ahead.

From all of us at Pharmig, we hope you have a joyful Christmas!

Thank you for your continued dedication to the pharmaceutical industry, and may the new year bring health, happiness, and professional fulfilment to you and your colleagues.

Back to the Pharmig blog.

Join us in 2026. Become a Pharmig member now.

Pharmig India 2025, taking place this December in Ahmedabad (December 2nd) and Hyderabad (December 4th), promises to be India’s premier summit for contamination control in the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sector.

In partnership with PharmaNow, a leading media and events platform, the conference brings together industry experts and regulators for two days of insight and professional collaboration. Here’s what you can expect…

Pharmig India: A Hub for Industry Knowledge

Attendees can expect a carefully curated programme that goes beyond traditional presentations. Leading local and international experts will tackle pressing topics in pharmaceutical microbiology, including environmental monitoring, contamination control strategies, and data integrity.

Through a combination of presentations, case studies, fireside chats, and interactive workshops, delegates will gain practical guidance they can implement directly in their facilities.

Key sessions include:

• Fine-tuning your Environmental Monitoring programme – Dr Tim Sandle from Pharmig provides insights on optimising EM practices.
• Contamination Control Strategy (CCS) – Patrick Nieuwenhuizen from PharmaLex highlights how CCS can improve both sterile and non-sterile operations.
• Data integrity in practice – David Keen of Ecolab leads a fireside discussion on maintaining compliance and trust in the era of stricter regulations.
• Air visualisation workshops and group exercises – Practical sessions led by Manish Bhatkar from Red Lotus allow attendees to see contamination control concepts in action.
• How does air visualisation fit into your overall microbial control (workshop) – Manish Bhatkar, Red Lotus
• Group exercises – practical exercises on pharmaceutical microbiology

Why India is Critical to Pharmaceutical Microbiology

India plays a critical role in global healthcare, supplying over 60% of the world’s vaccines and  hosting the largest number of US FDA-approved plants outside the US.

With the implementation of EU GMP Annex 1, regulatory expectations have risen sharply, placing microbiology and contamination control at the centre of compliance.

For QA, QC, and regulatory professionals, keeping pace with these standards has never been more crucial.

Networking and Live Demonstrations at Pharmig India

Pharmig India 2025 is about the latest best practices and learning. However, we also believe that industry connections and networking are at the heart of the event.

The event is invite-only and curated to ensure high-value interactions. Delegates will meet a focused audience of over 300 senior professionals, including QA and QC heads, microbiology managers, and regulatory affairs leaders.

Live demonstrations and interactive sessions provide a rare chance to engage directly with industry veterans and regulators, gaining insights into real-world applications of contamination control strategies.

Final Thoughts

By the end of the summit, participants will leave with actionable guidance on designing and implementing contamination control strategies, best practices for environmental monitoring, root-cause analysis skills, and an understanding of emerging trends shaping pharmaceutical microbiology.

More than that, attendees will return to their workplaces better equipped to ensure compliance and drive innovation in their organisations. And, of course, some positive memories!

Learn more about Pharmig India 2025 here.

Or for more information, visit PharmaNow’s Pharmig India 2025 page.

For professionals working in pharmaceutical, healthcare, cosmetics, or NHS microbiology fields, continuing with professional development is essential, no matter how long you’ve been in the industry.

There are numerous ways to stay up-to-date on new regulations and skills. However, microbiology short courses offer an efficient way to gain new knowledge and stay up to date with industry standards without committing to a full-time programme.

In the UK, these courses provide an ideal opportunity to combine practical learning with networking and expert guidance. Knowing when to attend can make the experience even more valuable.

What Are Microbiology Short Courses and Who Are They For?

Microbiology short courses typically run for one or two days and are designed to provide focused, practical training. They cover a range of topics from environmental monitoring and aseptic techniques to regulatory updates and quality assurance.

These courses are particularly suited to microbiologists and other professionals who have responsibilities for ensuring compliance with standards or implementing best practices.

Attending in-person allows participants to engage directly with expert lecturers and learn from the experiences of peers across the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. Read more about the benefits of attending in-person courses here.

Choosing the Right Time to Attend

Did you know that timing a short course strategically can maximise its benefit?

Many professionals find it helpful to schedule attendance before new projects, audits, or inspections. For example, taking a course before preparing for a regulatory review can provide practical insights and refresh knowledge that can be immediately applied.

Similarly, seasonal workloads in pharmaceutical and healthcare environments may also influence the best time to attend, with quieter periods offering the opportunity to fully focus on learning.

Whenever you decide to upgrade your skills, booking in advance is recommended to secure preferred dates and ensure availability. This is especially key for popular in-person microbiology short courses.

Maximising the Benefits of a Short Course

Preparation is key to making the most of any short course or microbiology training.

You can get more out of the experience by reviewing fundamental principles and considering specific workplace challenges. This can help you engage more effectively. Defining personal learning objectives is also a good way to stay focused.

Following the course, applying knowledge directly to daily work and linking learning outcomes to quality and compliance goals can enhance professional development and strengthen organisational practice.

Sharing insights with colleagues is another way to revise the information. As the saying goes, ‘To teach is to learn twice!’

Looking to the Future

Microbiology short courses are an excellent way for professionals to stay current and improve practical skills. By planning the timing carefully and preparing in advance, you can maximise both learning and application. Now go forth and enjoy!

See Pharmig’s online training courses for microbiologists here.

Read more on the Pharmig blog.

Are you new to microbiology or joining a scientific organisation for the first time?

On your first search, it can be difficult to know which microbiology organisations are credible or genuinely relevant for your career.

Whether you are a professional seeking collaboration, a student exploring career opportunities, or looking for some expert-approved training materials, recognising legitimate microbiology organisations will save you the headache of accidentally joining the wrong community.

This blog highlights key signs to help you identify trustworthy bodies in the field, and why Pharmig might be a good option for your microbiology practice.

What Is a Microbiology Organisation?

A microbiology organisation is a body dedicated to the research and application of microbiology.

These organisations play a critical role in supporting scientists and microbiology practitioners. This can include professional associations, research institutions, and regulatory bodies that help scientists, industry professionals, and the broader public in understanding microorganisms and their impact on health, food, and the environment.

A credible microbiology organisation promotes best practice and ethical standards in its field. It’ll also shed a spotlight on education and training courses for new and veteran microbiologists.

Read more about what makes a professional microbiology body here.

How Do You Know if a Microbiology Organisation Is Legitimate?

Any website can claim to be a scientific organisation, but not all claiming to be experts in microbiology operate with the same standards.

When evaluating legitimacy, there are several key signs to look for:

Qualified Leadership

Genuine microbiology organisations are led by professionals with recognised qualifications and experience in microbiology or related industry disciplines.

Leadership may include experienced microbiologists, academics, or industry experts who are actively engaged in the field and can provide credible guidance on scientific matters.

Pharmig is managed by a committee of Honorary Officers and up to 12 members elected at the AGM. Said committee has control of the group, and can implement changes and carry out objectives within Pharmig’s best interests.

Expert Affiliations

Legitimate organisations often maintain affiliations with other respected scientific institutions, universities, or other relevant professional societies.

Pharmig stands among other international organisations like the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), Microbiology Society (UK), Federation of European Microbiology Societies (FEMS).

See Pharmig’s links now.

Professional Environment

A professional environment reflects both the organisation’s operations and its culture — even if only online.

This includes transparent governance, adherence to ethical codes (e.g., social responsibility statements), and offering access to training and development.

A clear mission statement and visible educational resources also all signal professionalism.

Pharmig strives to communicate and advance microbiological best practice (including technical, scientific and regulatory aspects) covering Pharmaceutical, Healthcare, Cosmetics, NHS and other related industries. This is on a not-for-profit basis.

You can read Pharmig’s full list of objectives here.

The Takeaway

Over all, a legitimate microbiology organisation demonstrates expertise and a commitment to advancing the field responsibly.

If you’re currently looking for professional bodies, watch for qualified leadership, credible affiliations, and most importantly, a culture of best practice. Organisations that meet these criteria provide reassurance that their work is scientifically sound and ethically conducted.

Learn more about Pharmig.

Or discover how to become a member here.

Professional microbiology bodies play an essential role in supporting scientists and practitioners across the United Kingdom. These initiatives provide access to training and unique career opportunities, striving to improve microbiologists’ understanding and offer support through a community of experts.

Organisations such as Pharmig microbiology provide access to online courses, networking events, and professional resources designed specifically for the UK industry.

For microbiologists working in pharmaceutical microbiology UK, healthcare, or the NHS industry cleaning & disinfection sector, these bodies ensure that standards remain high and practices comply with national regulations. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a Professional Microbiology Body? A Quick Definition

In short, a professional microbiology body can be described as a membership organisation that supports its members in professional development.

Through this platform, it promotes best practices, ensures compliance with UK regulations, and provides a forum for microbiology knowledge exchange. By doing so, it helps microbiologists stay current with emerging challenges and advances in the field.

For example, a professional microbiology body can support those involved in industry cleaning & disinfection UK by providing up-to-date guidance. This makes a recognised microbiology organisation essential for maintaining patient safety and product quality.

“Professional microbiology body provides microbiologists with access to the latest research, networking opportunities, and continuing education to stay current in their field. It also advocates for the profession, setting standards and promoting the importance of microbiology in public health, industry, and research.”

– Maxine Moorey, Director – Pharmig

Core Functions in the UK

The core functions of a professional microbiology body in the UK include organising specialist training events and workshops that are specific to the local guidelines and legislation. These events often provide practical guidance on laboratory techniques and contamination control, amongst other regulatory requirements.

Continuing professional development opportunities beyond the study period help members maintain professional registration and enhance their career prospects.

Networking opportunities are offered through conferences, webinars, and forums, allowing members to connect with peers and discuss common challenges. These forums are especially valuable for professionals in pharmaceutical microbiology UK and those working with industry cleaning & disinfection UK, as you can discuss ideas and developments within your niche.

Why Membership Matters

Most microbiology organisations are situated behind paywalls. You need to register for a paid membership for direct access.

However, membership of a microbiology organisation offers several advantages, such as:

• More credibility in the UK microbiology community
• Gives access to training, events, and useful resources
• Lets you connect with other professionals facing similar challenges
• Allows you to help improve standards across the industry

Participation also allows members to influence developments in policy and practice, shaping the future of pharmaceutical microbiology UK and related sectors such as NHS industry cleaning & disinfection.

The Role of Specialist Groups

Beyond the broad microbiology organisation umbrella term, you’ll find specialist groups within professional bodies. These are particularly valuable for those working in niche areas such as pharmaceutical microbiology UK.

These inner groups focus on issues that may not be covered in broader scientific forums and provide a platform for sharing practical experience and technical knowledge. They support professionals in addressing challenges specific to their sector and ensure that expertise is maintained and disseminated throughout the community.

Conclusion

Professional microbiology bodies are essential for supporting professionals and advancing the field in the United Kingdom and beyond.

Organisations like Pharmig microbiology provide quality resources and networking that help practitioners excel in their careers while maintaining the highest levels of quality and safety.

Get started today with a Pharmig membership.

Or learn more on the Pharmig blog.

Across the pharmaceutical industry, microbiological understanding is increasingly important for teams beyond the microbiology department.

As microbiological standards and regulatory scrutiny continue to rise, there is growing pressure on personnel across related functions to develop a clear understanding of microbiological risks and control measures. But they don’t have to navigate these tasks without training.

Microbiology Training For Non-Microbiology Professionals

Pharmig’s microbiology training course, Microbiology for Non-Microbiologists, returning this October at STEM Learning in York, is designed to meet this need by offering foundational microbiology education to those without a technical background.

As a professional microbiology body, Pharmig continues to support cross-functional knowledge building across the pharmaceutical microbiology UK sector.

Let’s take a closer look at why non-microbiologists should brush up on their microbiology basics.

Why Microbiology Matters Across Departments

Non-microbiologists often encounter microbiological elements during deviation investigations, environmental data reviews, and cleanroom operations, among other situations.

No matter the industry, without a clear understanding of key terms or the implications of microbial findings, there is potential for confusion or miscommunication that could impact product quality or compliance.

The Pharmig course aims to demystify the subject, providing clarity on topics such as the types of microorganisms relevant to pharmaceutical manufacturing, sources of contamination, aseptic practices, and environmental monitoring.

Delivered in an accessible and engaging format, it encourages open dialogue and practical application of concepts. It’s intended for those in:

• Production
• QA
• Engineering
• Validation
• Regulatory Compliance
• Development

Microbiological control is also essential in supporting NHS industry cleaning & disinfection protocols and best practices in industry cleaning & disinfection UK settings, where understanding contamination risks is fundamental to good practice.

Enabling Better Collaboration and Decision-Making

Another significant benefit of additional training is enhanced cross-functional communication.

After equipping attendees with a working vocabulary and practical microbiology insights, interdepartmental collaboration becomes more effective. Investigations can proceed with fewer delays, and root-cause analyses are more informed. Overall, decisions regarding contamination risks are also better supported by evidence, a benefit for all parties involved.

Similarly, a shared understanding of microbiological quality fosters a stronger overall quality culture, where ownership is distributed across teams rather than confined to microbiology specialists alone. This supports not only compliance but also continuous improvement across sites.

Save Your Space With Pharmig

At Pharmig, we recognise that long-term contamination control success depends on cross-functional engagement and knowledge sharing. As a leading microbiology organisation, Pharmig ensures that its training content reflects current regulatory expectations and real-world challenges.

Whether you are in production, validation, engineering, or QA, understanding the fundamentals of microbiology enhances your contribution to the broader contamination control strategy.

Interested in joining the 7th October Pharma Microbiology for Non-Microbiologists STEM course? Early registration is recommended, as demand remains high and places are limited.

Visit the course page now.

Don’t forget! The above course compliments the Introduction to QC Microbiology: a practical lab-based training course that runs on the 8th & 9th October 2025.

We look forward to seeing you in October!

Until then, learn more about Pharmig or jump back to the news page.

Last year, a study of 2,000 people found that 47% of respondents felt guilty about taking time off work.

Though the study wasn’t conducted in the pharmaceutical microbiology field, the sentiments sometimes appear. For microbiologists, there’s always another task to complete, another risk to assess, another set of data to review. With such responsibilities, taking time off can feel counterintuitive.

However, stepping away (particularly during the summer) can be one of the most productive decisions a microbiologist makes. As June marks the start of summer, let’s explore why taking a holiday can benefit your professional life as much as your personal life.

Are Summer Holidays That Important?

Summer holidays aren’t just a perk. They’re essential for sustaining long-term performance.

For most microbiologists, the summer months offer a natural opportunity to slow down, with many colleagues also taking time off and project timelines easing slightly. This seasonal rhythm makes it a perfect moment to press pause.

Research has consistently shown that regular breaks improve focus, cognitive function, and job satisfaction. And in a field where precision, compliance, and innovation are non-negotiable, maintaining clarity of thought is not optional.

Summer holidays, in particular, provide an opportunity for reflection, creativity, and a chance to return with renewed purpose. But time off over a bank holiday or weekend will also do!

Active holidays offer the best opportunity to relax and reset, especially for careers that require mental effort, such as microbiology. Physical activity offers stress relief, mindfulness, and numerous physical benefits. So, dig out your hiking boots!

What Happens If You Don’t Take Breaks From Work?

Skipping breaks to focus on work might seem like dedication, but it comes at a cost.

Over time, relentless work can lead to fatigue, reduced attention to detail, and burnout. For microbiologists, this isn’t just inconvenient; it’s risky. The nature of your work demands accuracy, vigilance, and critical thinking. Whether you’re working on a new study or attending a conference, mental sharpness is vital.

Work-induced burnout can creep in gradually. Small mistakes, reduced motivation, or growing cynicism are all warning signs.

The World Health Organization recognises burnout as an occupational phenomenon, and science professionals are not immune. Worse still, burnout rarely improves without intervention. So, time away or reducing your deliverables are often the first steps towards recovery.

How a Summer Holiday Can Benefit Your Pharmaceutical Microbiology Career

Taking a holiday does not hinder your career; on the contrary, it can actively support your professional development.

Improved Workflows

Pharmaceutical microbiologists frequently balance technical rigour with regulatory requirements and cross-functional collaboration. These responsibilities demand clear thinking, patience, and adaptability—qualities that are strengthened through proper rest.

Taking time away from work helps support sound decision-making and reduces the likelihood of errors caused by fatigue or repetition.

Unexpected Inspiration

Furthermore, stepping away from routine can provide unexpected inspiration. Exposure to new environments or simply adopting a different pace can prompt fresh ideas or alternative approaches that enhance day-to-day performance.

Better Teamwork

A well-rested mind also fosters better interpersonal dynamics, which colleagues are likely to notice through increased engagement and resilience.

Rather than viewing a summer holiday as lost time, consider it a vital part of your professional toolkit. Plan it thoughtfully, communicate effectively with your team, and take the opportunity to disconnect fully.

Conclusion

Time away from the lab or cleanroom isn’t a disruption. It’s a reset.

The summer season offers an ideal opportunity (and better weather) to rest, recharge, and return stronger. By taking care of yourself, you’re ultimately supporting the quality and consistency of your work. So, book that holiday and enjoy!

Jump back to the Pharmig blog now.

Pharmaceutical microbiology rarely, if ever, stays still.

Staying informed and up-to-date is more than a professional advantage; it’s a necessity! The science, the regulations, and the best practices shift continuously, and one of the most powerful ways to keep pace is by attending industry conferences.

Whether you’re early in your microbiology career or not, conferences serve as a concentrated hub of knowledge and innovation. Attendees benefit not only from expert-led presentations and real-world case studies, but also from engaging discussions around new regulatory guidance and emerging technologies.

Here are a few reasons to add a few Pharmig conferences and meetings to your calendar this year.

The Power of Networking and Shared Experience

Networking is key reason to book an upcoming conference.

Linkedin Corporate Communications research shows that 80% of professionals consider networking as a vital step to career success.

Pharmaceutical microbiology conferences gather a broad spectrum of professionals, from QC microbiologists and laboratory managers to regulators, suppliers, and everyone in between.

These interactions can spark new collaborations, offer solutions to persistent challenges, or inspire fresh perspectives. You never know who you’ll bump into and where the professional connection will lead.

Also, remember that learning doesn’t just happen in the conference room. It happens over coffee breaks, during Q&A panels, and in informal conversations that continue long after the final session.

Interactive Learning with Practical Application

The best conferences are known for their interactive sessions, where attendees don’t just listen—they engage.

Look for conferences that offer a healthy mix of workshops, open discussions, and panel Q&As – the types that Pharmig runs. These opportunities allow everyone to ask questions, challenge ideas, and share their own experiences.

An event with a format ensures that even complex topics are approachable and accessible to all attendees. Plus, it’s a more captivating way to get involved and absorb information.

Spotlight: Pharmig’s Inaugural Europe Conference

If you’re looking for a conference that combines the above benefits for a real-world impact, you might be interested in Pharmigs new European Conference

On the 17^th & 18^th June, Pharmig will hold a conference with industry leading experts on the following hot topics:

• Regulatory updates
• Update on the regulatory framework for recombinant technologies for Bacterial Endotoxin Testing (BET) in light of USP developments: A comprehensive overview on the tail of the USP new publication on recombinant reagents
• Blurring the Lines: Learning from innovations in non-sterile QC microbiology
• Hygienic design awareness
• Assuring quality: Validation of cleaning and disinfection of cleanrooms
• Contamination Control Strategy (CCS): advantages in using it in a sterile / non-sterile environment
• Changing a company culture for greater micro awareness
• Driving digitalization through the establishment of microbial identification systems and standardize on the assessment of microbial identifications
• Air visualization studies
• AstraZeneca’s recent experiences with rogue Biological Indicators during cycle development of a VPHP decontamination
• Process for isolators
• Validation of a UV-C disinfection method for cleanrooms
• The Holomicrobiome revolution: Unlocking the power of microbiomes

See the full conference agenda here.

Last Thoughts

Attending a professional conference offers benefits that go far beyond what can be gained through independent study or online resources. Attendees return to their roles with current insights, practical knowledge, and a broader network of peers, all of which help to strengthen microbiological practices and support regulatory compliance across the industry.

Will you add a conference to your calendar this year? See upcoming Pharmig meetings now.

Jump back to the Pharmig blog.

In non-sterile product manufacturing, the risk of microbial contamination is always a concern.

While products like creams, tablets, or lotions don’t always need to be sterile, they must still be free from harmful microorganisms. Small mistakes in microbiological practices can lead to big problems, including product recalls, safety issues, and regulatory penalties.

Today, we’re exploring some common microbiology pitfalls in non-sterile manufacturing and ways to avoid them in future practice.

1. Inadequate Cleaning Practices

One of the most common issues in non-sterile manufacturing is inadequate cleaning.

If equipment, surfaces, or environments aren’t properly cleaned, microorganisms can easily contaminate products. This issue typically occurs when the cleaning process is rushed, when indirect product contact areas are overlooked, or the validation is insufficient to ensure that the cleaning is effective – especially at those difficult to clean areas.

You can avoid this pitfall by implementing and validating cleaning procedures suited to the product, process and equipment. The validation should consider hold times, water quality, application technique and rinse requirements and should be routinely verified to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

2. Poor Microbiological Risk Assessments

Microbial risks are sometimes overlooked or under-assessed during the design and production phases. Without a solid microbiological risk assessment, companies may fail to identify contamination sources, such as water, raw materials, open processing or human handling.

You must always conduct a thorough microbiological risk assessment for each step in the manufacturing process.

It’s also good practice to regularly update the risk assessment when there are changes to the process.  Scientific Fact sheets can be useful  to support this risk assessment process.

3. Improper Deviation Handling

Microbiological excursions and deviations can be costly, especially if they’re not investigated properly. Ignoring the root cause of an issue can lead to further contamination and product safety and/or spoilage concerns.

Microbiologists can bypass this issue by developing a clear deviation protocol with specific action plans for investigation and corrective measures.

Every microbial issue should be thoroughly documented, and root cause analysis should be conducted, with appropriate corrective and preventative actions put in place to ensure the problem doesn’t happen again. Always learn from past mistakes!

4. Skipping Antimicrobial Efficacy Testing (AET)

For many non-sterile products, preservatives or antimicrobial agents are used to keep harmful microorganisms at bay during manufacture and routine consumer use through shelf life.

However, without proper Antimicrobial Efficacy Testing (AET), there’s no guarantee that these preservatives will remain effective over time.

Teams should conduct AET to ensure the antimicrobials remain effective throughout the shelf life, under various conditions, keeping products safe for use.

5. Inconsistent Sampling & Testing

A final key pitfall is inconsistent sampling and testing. Insufficient samples or outdated, unsuitable methods can let contamination slip through.

You can avoid this issue by developing a consistent sampling plan at critical control points based on risk assessment, using suitable microbiological testing methods and trending the resulting data to catch issues early.

Pharmig’s Upcoming Non-sterile Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Microbiology Session

On the 24th April, Pharmig is holding a virtual meeting on Non-Sterile Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Microbiology.

 This online event covers topics, such as:

• Common audit citations in non-sterile products
• An approach to microbiological technical risk assessments for non-sterile manufacture – from a GSK perspective
• Cleaning validation considerations on microbiological aspects
• Deviation/investigation handling – common microbiological issues faced in Non-Steriles
• Antimicrobial efficacy testing (AET): benefits and pitfalls
• Blurring the lines: Learning from innovations in Non-Sterile QC Microbiology

Members can book for £360 and non-members £560.

Learn more and save your spot online here.

The Takeaway

Microbiology is vital in non-sterile manufacturing, and avoiding common pitfalls like poor cleaning, inadequate risk assessments, and inappropriate testing helps ensure product safety and quality.

Pharmig is also here to support your microbiology people, processes and practices. We’re a non-profit organisation established in 1991, representing individuals involved in microbiology within the pharmaceutical, healthcare, cosmetics, and NHS industries.

Learn more about how we work here.

Or jump back to the Pharmig news.