1. Bacteria
Gram-Positive Bacteria
Examples: Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis.
Characteristics: Resistant to drying; some form spores.
Gram-Negative Bacteria
Examples: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli.
Characteristics: Often found in water; can be resistant to preservatives.
Illustration of Different types of Bacteria
2. Fungi
Molds
Examples: Aspergillus niger, Penicillium species.
Characteristics: Produce spores; can grow in low aw environments.
Yeasts
Examples: Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Characteristics: Can grow in acidic environments; cause fermentation.
3. Spores (Types of Microbial Contaminants)
Definition: Dormant, resistant forms of bacteria and fungi.
Impact: Resistant to heat and chemical disinfectants.
Control: Requires stringent sterilization methods like autoclaving.
4.Viruses and Mycoplasmas
Less Common: Generally, not a major concern in pharmaceutical spoilage but important in biological products.
Above are the different Types of Microbial Contaminants
Illustration of viruses and spores