A method for controlling growth of contaminant microorganisms in a fermentation process using a combination of (a) peroxide compound (PC) and (b) a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC). The method comprises adding PC and QAC to one or more steps of a fermentation process. In this method, the PC and QAC may be added to one or more components of a fermentation broth comprising inoculant, fermentable sugar and process water.