QACS uses DNA technology to provide fast & cost effective cosmetic testing services to the personal care industry. Our molecular services on Microbiome analysis, Microbiological surveillance and Authenticity testing for cosmetics make sure your product is safe, is absent of pathogen and substantiate your cosmetic product claims. Learn more

Our Lab uses molecular technology to provide pharmaceutical testing services in rapid turnaround times. DNA Microlab, member of QACS assists pharmaceutical manufacturing and monitoring processes in order to secure the absence of microbial contamination via Microbial Species Identification, Pathogen detection & Environmental monitoring testing services. Learn more

At QACS we deliver Microbiome Balance, Microbiome Friendly and Skin Friendly Preservation testing services. Cosmetic Microbiome studies are supported by years of clinical efficacy testing experience and molecular biology know-how. Studies, adopted to your product’s needs and budget, are provided in the form of customized protocols. Learn more

Increasing legislative demands and regulatory bodies, challenge microbial free production procedures. Sometimes, the use of antibacterial, bacteriostatic or bactericidal preservatives are not enough. The quality system must ensure the absence of microbial contamination from production areas and subsequently from finished products. To do so, a constant monitoring system should be established and corrective actions should be taken for continuous improvement. We undertake the Environmental monitoring by swabs, air monitoring, microbiological analysis of raw material or water by our specialized personnel.

Microbes isolated from finished products, ingredients, water samples and production areas are candidates for identification. Particularly if their numbers exceed alert or action limits. The name of the species of the microorganism could play a significant role in the investigation of its source and in the root cause analysis. We offer scientific guidance and solutions to further facilitate the microorganism’s investigation and proceed to root cause analysis of any microbial contamination.

The DNA identification method is globally recognized as the most reliable for the classification of microorganisms. At QACS, we assist you with Microorganism Identification, specifying the species level, via DNA technology. Microorganism Identification service is accredited and offered in rapid turnaround times (24h). Bacteria, Yeast and Molds are identified to the species name. In addition to the micro-organism species name, information about the ecology, classification, growth conditions and possible pathogenesis is provided. We test Colonies of microorganisms derived from Food, Drugs, Cosmetics or Εnvironmental Samples.

Along with above, a description of the microorganism is included to facilitate targeted corrective actions in the analysis report.  Express analysis is available, upon request.

Animal Species detection (Real Time PCR), Real Time PCR analysis for the sensitive detection of meat DNA. Pork, Sheep, Goat, Bovine, Horse, Chicken, Turkey and other animal species in food is provided.

Botanical, fish or animal authenticity can be detected via DNA Barcoding. The product or raw material acquires a “seal of authenticity” to protect producers & distributors from counterfeiting and increases product value. The TAT is 10-15 working days.

Organisms profile (NGS analysis), in biological mixtures such as cosmetic herbal mixtures or food composed of many ingredients such as sausage, cheese or pie, Next Generation sequencing (NGS) is used to identify any organism that is contained at the species level qualitatively and quantitatively. TAT 30 working days.

Worldwide pathogenic bacteria are a growing public health concern and pose a great risk to industry reputation. Protect your brand from costly product recalls by proceeding to Pathogen Detection testing.

We perform rapid and accurate pathogen detection via Real Time PCR to ensure product safety. Pathogenic bacteria of the genus Salmonella, Listeria, Shigella and others after enrichment are detected in 24h.

GMO testing is crucial for producers who want to verify the Authenticity of their products, fulfill labeling requirements and comply with EU Regulation (EC) No. 1830/2003 and EU Regulation (EC) No. 619/2011. Qualitative and Quantitative GMO analysis makes sure you reach testing & industry needs.  QACS examines genetic modification presence on seeds, flour, feed and food.

We offer a wide range of accredited genetic modifications tests for soya, corn, cotton and other plant species.

• Genetic Isolation & Detection
• Genetic Quantification
• Common genetic modifications Detection
• Accredited GMO testing for soya, cotton, corn

The primary goal of this service is to help cosmetic brands maintain high-quality standards and safety in their production processes by closely monitoring and understanding the microbial populations within their facilities. Metagenomics, in this context, refers to the study of the genetic material of microorganisms in a given environment, which can provide valuable insights for quality control and safety in the cosmetic industry.

Τhe MMS approach from QACS, combines the long standing microbiology experience of our experts on plant and production areas. With the power of NGS and metagenomic analysis you can accurately :

• Map and monitor the complete microbiome of your production facility.
• Pinpoint pathogens and contaminants in the environment.
• Identify their routes and biofilms.
• Track their sources proactively.
• Gain full insight of the microbial populations in your production environment before it affects your products.
• Use the data retrospectively to identify possible sources of contamination in case of QC failure.

 Untargeted approach: You only find what you look for…
Although bacteria can be found anywhere, their presence in production environments, such as cosmetics/drug manufacturing and food processing plants, poses a constant threat.

When harmful or spoilage bacteria enter a product, QA/QC managers face a huge challenge to control/prevent recalls. Since production processes nowadays are well designed and automated, to control unwanted bacteria, you mostly need to control the environment of your production.

The classical approach with swabs and culture plates only detects a limited number of microorganisms that are able to grow in the conditions used, and with a variable performance. Their results are often difficult to interpret or even meaningless.

MMS gives an untargeted approach to this procedure revealing the full picture:

• Samples are taken from all important sources in the production environment.
• Total DNA is isolated from all samples and sequenced with NGS.
• The full depth of the microbiome of each sample is revealed from each sample analysis.
• Combining the results of each sample a full microbiome map of the production environment is revealed.
• Metadata analysis, heatmaps and most of all our expert’s insight results in a comprehensive report with clear interpretation of the finding and suggestions for corrective actions.

For cosmetic manufacturers looking to dive into the depths of skin secrets, Quorum Quenching constitutes an innovative analysis providing key solutions regarding skin bacteria communication.

Our skin is home to a diverse array of skin microorganisms which play an essential role in skin health maintenance and protection against pathogens. These microorganisms, collectively known as skin microbiome, communicate continuously. But how does this communication happen?

The process used by bacterial cells to communicate with each other, and coordinate their behavior based on population density is named quorum sensing. Through quorum sensing, this social network of microbes communicates so effectively that it can modulate gene expression and behavior of entire populations!

What is Quorum Quenching – It is the process of disrupting or inhibiting quorum sensing in microorganisms by using natural or synthetic compounds that interfere with the production, detection, or response to quorum sensing molecules. Quorum Quenching has been proposed as a potential strategy to modulate skin microbes behavior and to promote skin health. For example, it can be used to disrupt the biofilms formed by pathogenic skin microbes, making them more susceptible to immune clearance and antimicrobial agents.

How we do it – We have developed a protocol for screening cosmetic formulations, for their ability to inhibit quorum sensing of targeted microbes such as P.acnes and S.aureus. Quorum Quenching Analysis from QACS Lab has been developed so our customers could produce breakthrough quorum quenching technology products (eg. anti-acne), that can inhibit the communication of “bad” skin bacteria and rebalance skin microbiome

Proceed to Quorum Quenching analysis for Cosmetics and shift the microbial balance in favor of skin beneficial properties!