According to the company, the University of South Florida conducted independent tests on the filter with spores that are similar in size to anthrax. The company claims the tests showed the filter can remove more than 99.999999 percent (8 log of a nonpathogenic surrogate) of anthrax spores.

Brad Mierau, vice president of research and development at Innova, said spores of bacillus globigii, were used as a surrogate for anthrax during the testing. Mierau said bacillus globigii is a "nonpathogenic relative" of anthrax and that a single spore is nearly the same size as an anthrax spore.

Production began around four years ago for the filter, which likely will be marketed to hikers and campers, and had nothing to do with the recent anthrax scare, according to Mireau.

The filter fits into a portable sports bottle and is capable of treating up to 75 gallons of water, according to the company. In addition to anthrax spores, Innova claims the filter can remove other bacteria, cysts and protozoa that have been found in drinking water.

The filter is expected to be priced between $39-$49.

Distribution to specific mass merchants and outdoor retailers is expected to begin in December. Other models are being developed for the military and for use overseas, the company said.

Innova Pure Water has more than 30 patents relating to consumer water treatment technology.