Unlike traditional batch-based media preparation, which often requires advance planning, autoclaving, bottle handling and media storage, Thermo Scientific InstaFlux enables laboratories to prepare enrichment media when needed. 

"As food testing demands continue to grow, laboratories need solutions that help them do more with the resources they have," says Claribel Purcell, interim president of the microbiology business at Thermo Fisher Scientific. "Thermo Scientific InstaFlux reflects our commitment to helping customers modernize enrichment workflows through a simpler, on-demand approach that supports productivity, traceability and long-term operational sustainability."

The InstaFlux workflow enables specific capabilities, including:

• Helps reduce hands-on media preparation steps while supporting barcode-driven workflows, digital audit trails and LIMS-ready data integration when preparing food samples.
• Supports gravimetric dispensing across 10 g to 125 g workflows in accordance with ISO 11133 and ISO 6887-1 and ISO 7218, when validated by the laboratory.

InstaFlux is designed for high- and mid-throughput food microbiology laboratories, including contract testing laboratories and food manufacturers seeking to improve throughput, standardize workflows across sites and reduce the operational burden associated with traditional media preparation. The workflow is particularly relevant for laboratories using buffered peptone water in routine enrichment workflows, where staffing, space, preparation time, traceability and waste can create operational constraints.