USP <62> – Test For Objectionable Microorganisms

The USP <62> test evaluates a product for the presence or absence of potential pathogens.

The USP <62> Test for Specified Microorganisms, like the USP <61>, is a product safety test from the United States Pharmacopeia.

USP <62> tests are necessary for cosmetic and personal products to determine that any microorganisms that may be present in a product are not specific pathogenic microorganisms of particular concern if found in a consumer product.

This test method has defined procedures for the detection of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, Salmonella species, Clostridida species, fungal organisms, and a quantitative MPN for bile-tolerant gram negative bacteria such as members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonads and Aeromonas.

Summary of the USP <62> Test

The USP <62> Test consists of an initial enrichment of the sample in an appropriate neutralizer broth, and then streaking the enriched sample onto selective media for determination of the presence or absence of the specified objectionable microorganisms. It utilizes specific elements of the USP <61> for sample preparation to include the neutralization of the product to be tested.

The USP <62> requires that prior to or in concert with routine specified microorganism testing, a one-time suitability of recovery test must be performed. This suitability test demonstrates the ability of the methods used to recover and detect the defined microorganisms if they are present in the sample.