Sparta, New Jersey, February 12, 2026
MPL Laboratories, an FDA-registered, cGMP, and ISO 17025 compliant testing facility specializing in microbial and sterility analysis for pharmaceuticals, OTC medicines, cosmetics, personal care items, and other consumer goods, is highlighting a recent recall that underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining sterility in eye care products.
Health Canada has issued a recall for select lots of an Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment USP after determining that the sterility of the product “might be compromised.” Ophthalmic products require the highest standards of purity because they are applied directly to one of the body’s most sensitive areas. Even minimal microbial contamination can cause eye irritation, infection, or more serious health complications. As regulatory authorities consistently emphasize, sterility remains one of the most critical quality attributes for drugs intended for ocular use.
Maintaining sterility is a complex undertaking. Even with stringent aseptic production systems, contamination risks persist during formulation, filling, sealing, packaging, and other handling steps. As recalls tied to sterility lapses continue to be reported across the industry, manufacturers increasingly rely on third-party analytical laboratories to supplement internal quality controls and ensure the safety and compliance of their products before they reach consumers.
MPL Laboratories works closely with companies to help prevent contaminated, compromised, or out-of-specification products from entering the marketplace. The laboratory’s advanced instrumentation and accredited testing capabilities allow for the detection of a broad spectrum of microorganisms and potential contaminants found in a wide variety of consumer goods. All testing is conducted at MPL’s state-of-the-art facility, providing manufacturers, importers, and distributors with an added layer of assurance. These services not only protect public health but also help organizations avoid the financial impact of recalls, safeguard brand reputation, and reduce exposure to potential legal liabilities.
For more information about microbial, sterility, and other testing services offered by MPL Laboratories, please visit www.MPLLaboratories.com, call (800) 548-1874, or email info@MPLLaboratories.com.
About MPL Laboratories
MPL Laboratories (formerly Marypaul Laboratories) was founded in 1985 as a full service microbiology laboratory. It is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited by PJLA, FDA, and DEA registered. MPL’s staff includes a Ph.D. Diplomat of the American Board of Toxicology, M.S. and B.S. degreed microbiologists, along with other dedicated scientific personnel. The microbiology testing laboratory serves the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care product industries. MPL strives to provide its clients with reliable, defensible test data delivered in a timely manner. The laboratory is part of the EMSL Analytical network of laboratories across the United States and Canada.
