Botanical formula prevents TAB spoilage in non-fruit-based beverages in recent study

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Resorcix and Gat Foods (Giva’at Haim, Israel) have announced the results of a pilot trial demonstrating the effectiveness of its new botanical formula (Flavorwatch) for the elimination of thermophilic acidophilic bacteria (TAB). TAB is a group of nonpathogenic microbes known to generate strong off flavors and odors in still ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and evade pasteurization. Although it was previously thought the source of the bacterial contamination was the fruit component, research on several beverage categories has confirmed that TAB can easily multiply in beverages that contain no fruit at all.

“Sugar, water, stabilizers, emulsifiers, and other ingredients turn out to be potential sources of TAB,” explained Lior Sinai, PhD, a microbiologist and CTO for Resorcix, in a press release. “The good news: Flavorwatch botanical solution works just as efficiently in non-fruit-based beverages and is effective in all types of sports beverages.”

The pilot trial investigated Flavorwatch's effectiveness in several brands of non-carbonated sports and energy beverages collected from retail shelves. Each product was inoculated with spores of four different Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris strains to a concentration amounting to 1,500 CFU/liter. The drinks were separated into batches: a positive control batch and a batch treated with Flavorwatch. Both batches were pasteurized at 95°C for 30 seconds and hot-filled into bottles. The Flavorwatch group demonstrated effective resistance against TAB spoilage during the 180-day trial while the control bottles showed signs of TAB multiplication after just seven days.

“Sports drinks and non-carbonated energy drinks are enjoying booming growth worldwide, based on their reputation as refreshing trendy beverages that can help support a healthy and active lifestyle,” said Hila Bentman, marketing manager of Gat Foods, in a press release. “From high-carb, high-mineral, concentrated isotonic beverages to nootropic, botanical-infused drinks that come in exotic flavors, this category of functional drinks is the subject of constant innovation to boost organoleptic and wellness qualities. However, TAB spoilage can markedly hinder their appeal and the consumer experience and damage the brand’s reputation. FLAVORWATCH dramatically reduces these risks and can help provide peace of mind to beverage manufacturers.”