Water activity measurement
The key parameter for shelf life determination
Water activity (aw) is a key parameter for:
Prevention of microbial growth: No unwanted microbes
Full quality control: Understand oxidation, browning, and enzymatic reactions
Shelf-life determination: Achieve improved texture and physical stability
Regulatory compliance
Adhere to ISO, USP, ICH stability guidelines
Unlike moisture content, water activity reflects the energy state of water – directly impacting shelf life, microbial safety, and formulation integrity.
Want to learn more? Watch the 3min video on water activity
Measure what truly matters: Water activity measurement for reliable quality and shelf life
Swiss-made precision for scientists in food and pharmaceutical industries. The LAB series delivers accuracy, compliance, and confidence – from formulation to final product.
The Novasina sensor advantage
At the core of all LAB instruments is Novasina’s proprietary resistive-electrolytic sensor:
Direct measurement of true vapor equilibrium
Immune to volatiles with protective filter options
Reusable calibration salt standards with RFID verification
Long-term stability, minimal maintenance
Industry leading accuracy of
Choose the right device for your application
All LAB instruments rely on the same measurement principle and proven Swiss sensor technology, with different models offering varying levels of functionality. Choose the one that best fits your lab’s workflow.
LabMaster-aw neo
Regulatory R&D, QC,
Shelf-Life Validation
Accuracy: Industry-leading +/- 0.003aW
Temp Control:
Full (0-60°C)
21 CFR 11 (audit trail), ISO 18787, RFID calibration, highest precision, flagship model for highest demands, software/ printer compatible
LabTouch-aw
Daily/ weekly QC,
Routine Release
Accuracy: High-precision +/- 0.005aW
Temp control: Semi-thermostatic (heating)
Touchscreen, ergonomic, allrounder, Allrounder, software/ printer compatible
LabSwift-aw
On-site QC,
Floor-level testing
Accuracy: ±0.01 aw
Temp Control:
Ambient
Portable, robust, optional battery pack,
LabStart-aw
Basic QC,
Education
Accuracy: ±0.01 aw
Temp Control:
Ambient, no temp control
Entry-level, simple samples, best value entry
Novasina sensor technology core
Proprietary resistive electrolytic sensor technology – developed exclusively by Novasina.
Unique reusable SAL-T calibration Reusable salt standards with membrane – a globally unique solution for precise and sustainable calibration.
Measure all sample types with filter protection
“When quality depends on numbers, make sure yours are real.“
1’500+ scientific references in peer-reviewed publications and trusted by top-tier global labs for over 65 years*
*as of ScienceDirect from 10/2025
Applications
Built on swiss science. Driven by purpose.
Our Mission: Peace of mind by empowering you with product safety
TRUSTED BY
Let’s elevate your quality control
We believe the world deserves safe, stable, high-quality products. That’s why since 1958, we’ve worked alongside scientists to deliver instruments that: Prevent recalls – Minimize waste – Empower confident decision-making
Our goal? To help you go home with peace of mind, knowing you’ve measured what really matters. We support scientists who want to build better products, prevent failure, and master shelf life.
