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11 pages, 7514 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enrichment Free qPCR for Rapid Identification and Quantification of Campylobacter jejuni, C. coli, C. lari, and C. upsaliensis in Chicken Meat Samples by a New Couple of Primers

by Priya Vizzini, Jasmina Vidic and Marisa Manzano

Foods 2021, 10(10), 2341; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10102341 - 30 Sep 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3265

Abstract

Campylobacter is the main cause of bacterial foodborne disease and poultry meat is the principal source of human infections. Rapid methods for Campylobacter detection are urgently needed to decrease high bacterial prevalence in poultry products. In this study, we developed new primers, CampyPFw [...] Read more.

Campylobacter is the main cause of bacterial foodborne disease and poultry meat is the principal source of human infections. Rapid methods for Campylobacter detection are urgently needed to decrease high bacterial prevalence in poultry products. In this study, we developed new primers, CampyPFw and CampyPRv, that target the 16S-23S rRNA genes of Campylobacter jejuni, C. coli, C. lari and C. upsaliensis. The primers were tested on positive and negative reference strains in pure cultures and in inoculated poultry meat samples before their application in real-time PCR (qPCR) protocol for analyzing chicken meat samples. In parallel, the samples were tested by using the ISO 10272-1:2006 method. The qPCR protocol based on CampyPFw and CampyPRv showed good sensitivity, with the limit of detection of 4.6 × 10² cells/mL in chicken samples without enrichment steps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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15 pages, 2785 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Management of Listeria monocytogenes on Surfaces via Relative Air Humidity: Key Role of Cell Envelope

by Fiona Zoz, Stéphane Guyot, Cosette Grandvalet, Mélanie Ragon, Eric Lesniewska, Sébastien Dupont, Olivier Firmesse, Brigitte Carpentier and Laurent Beney

Foods 2021, 10(9), 2002; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10092002 - 26 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2436

Abstract

Although relative air humidity (RH) strongly influences microbial survival, its use for fighting surface pathogens in the food industry has been inadequately considered. We asked whether RH control could destroy Listeria monocytogenes EGDe by envelope damage. The impact of dehydration in phosphate-buffered saline [...] Read more.

Although relative air humidity (RH) strongly influences microbial survival, its use for fighting surface pathogens in the food industry has been inadequately considered. We asked whether RH control could destroy Listeria monocytogenes EGDe by envelope damage. The impact of dehydration in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at 75%, 68%, 43% and 11% RH on the bacterial envelope was investigated using flow cytometry and atomic force microscopy. Changes after rehydration in the protein secondary structure and peptidoglycan were investigated by infrared spectroscopy. Complementary cultivability measurements were performed by running dehydration–rehydration with combinations of NaCl (3–0.01%), distilled water, city water and PBS. The main results show that cell membrane permeability and cell envelope were greatly altered during dehydration in PBS at 68% RH followed by rapid rehydration. This damage led cells to recover only 67% of their initial volume after rehydration. Moreover, the most efficient way to destroy cells was dehydration and rehydration in city water. Our study indicates that rehydration of dried, sullied foods on surfaces may improve current cleaning procedures in the food industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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13 pages, 2686 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Insight into the Bactericidal Mechanism of 405 nm Blue Light-Emitting-Diode against Dairy Sourced Cronobacter sakazakii

by Shuyan Wu, Pornchanok Subharat and Gale Brightwell

Foods 2021, 10(9), 1996; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10091996 - 25 Aug 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2173

Abstract

(1) Background: Limited evidence exists addressing the action of antimicrobial visible light against Cronobacter sakazakii. Here, we investigated the antimicrobial effects of blue-LED (light emitting diode) at 405 nm against two persistent dairy environment sourced strains of C. sakazakii (ES191 and AGRFS2961). [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Limited evidence exists addressing the action of antimicrobial visible light against Cronobacter sakazakii. Here, we investigated the antimicrobial effects of blue-LED (light emitting diode) at 405 nm against two persistent dairy environment sourced strains of C. sakazakii (ES191 and AGRFS2961). (2) Methods: Beside of investigating cell survival by counts, the phenotypic characteristics of the strains were compared with a reference strain (BAA894) by evaluating the metabolic rate, cell membrane permeability, and ROS level. (3) Results: The two environment isolates (ES191 and AGRFS2961) were more metabolic active and ES191 showed dramatic permeability change of the outer membrane. Notably, we detected varied impacts of different ROS scavengers (catalase > thiourea > superoxide dismutase) during light application, suggesting that hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂₎, the reducing target of catalase, has a key role during blue light inactivation. This finding was further strengthened, following the observation that the combined effect of external H₂O₂ (sublethal concentration) and 405 nm LED, achieved an additional 2–4 log CFU reduction for both stationary phase and biofilm cells. (4) Conclusions: H₂O₂ could be used in combination with blue light to enhance bactericidal efficacy and form the basis of a new hurdle technology for controlling C. sakazakii in dairy processing plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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12 pages, 26712 KiB

Open AccessArticle

One-Day Molecular Detection of Salmonella and Campylobacter in Chicken Meat: A Pilot Study

by Andrea Zendrini, Valentina Carta, Virginia Filipello, Laura Ragni, Elena Cosciani-Cunico, Sara Arnaboldi, Barbara Bertasi, Niccolò Franceschi, Paolo Ajmone-Marsan, Dario De Medici and Marina Nadia Losio

Foods 2021, 10(5), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10051132 - 19 May 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3436

Abstract

Salmonella and Campylobacter ssp. are bacterial pathogens responsible for most foodborne infections in EU countries. Poultry serves as a reservoir for these pathogens, and its important role in the meat industry makes it essential to develop a rapid detection assay able to provide [...] Read more.

Salmonella and Campylobacter ssp. are bacterial pathogens responsible for most foodborne infections in EU countries. Poultry serves as a reservoir for these pathogens, and its important role in the meat industry makes it essential to develop a rapid detection assay able to provide results in one day. Indeed, the rapid identification of foodborne pathogens is an important instrument for the monitoring and prevention of epidemic outbreaks. To date, Salmonella and Campylobacter screening is mainly conducted through molecular methods (PCR or real-time PCR) performed after 18–24 h long enrichments. In this study, we evaluated short enrichments (0, 2, 4, and 6 h) combined with a colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal AMPlification (LAMP) or real-time PCR to detect Salmonella and Campylobacter in poultry meat contaminated at different concentration levels (10¹, 10³, and 10⁵ CFU/g). Our results show that real-time PCR allows the detection of Salmonella and Campylobacter, even after shorter enrichment times than prescribed by ISO references; particularly, it detected Salmonella down to 10¹ CFU/g since T0 and Campylobacter from 10³ CFU/g since T0. Detection with LAMP was comparable to real-time PCR without the requirement of a thermal cycler and with shorter execution times. These characteristics make colorimetric LAMP a valid alternative when one-day results are needed, improving the timely identification of positive meat batches, even in the absence of specialized instrumentation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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18 pages, 2728 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biofilm-Forming Ability of Microbacterium lacticum and Staphylococcus capitis Considering Physicochemical and Topographical Surface Properties

by Elena Zand, Hedwig Pfanner, Konrad J. Domig, Gerhard Sinn, Marija Zunabovic-Pichler and Henry Jaeger

Foods 2021, 10(3), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10030611 - 13 Mar 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3246

Abstract

Biofilm characteristics of Microbacterium lacticum D84 (M. lacticum) and Staphylococcus capitis subsp. capitis (S. capitis) on polytetrafluoroethylene and AISI-304 stainless steel at early- (24, 48 h) and late-stage (144, 192 h) biofilm formation were investigated. M. lacticum biofilm structure [...] Read more.

Biofilm characteristics of Microbacterium lacticum D84 (M. lacticum) and Staphylococcus capitis subsp. capitis (S. capitis) on polytetrafluoroethylene and AISI-304 stainless steel at early- (24, 48 h) and late-stage (144, 192 h) biofilm formation were investigated. M. lacticum biofilm structure was more developed compared to S. capitis, representing vastly mature biofilms with a strongly developed amorphous matrix, possibly extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs), at late-stage biofilm formation. S. capitis showed faster growth behavior but still resulted in a relatively flat biofilm structure. Strong correlations were found between several roughness parameters and S. capitis surface coverage (r ≥ 0.98), and between total surface free energy (

γ_{s}

) and S. capitis surface coverage (r = 0.89), while M. lacticum remained mostly unaffected. The pronounced ubiquitous biofilm characteristics make M. lacticum D84 a suitable model for biofilm research. Studying biofilm formation of these bacteria may help one understand bacterial adhesion on interfaces and hence reduce biofilm formation in the food industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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8 pages, 265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Chlorine Dioxide Treatment on Human Pathogens on Iceberg Lettuce

by Karin Hassenberg, Ulrike Praeger and Werner B. Herppich

Foods 2021, 10(3), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10030574 - 10 Mar 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3173

Abstract

In the vegetable processing industry, the application of chlorine dioxide (ClO₂) as a disinfectant solved in washing water to eliminate undesirable microorganisms harmful to consumers’ health and the shelf life of produce has been discussed for years. The disinfection efficacy depends [...] Read more.

In the vegetable processing industry, the application of chlorine dioxide (ClO₂) as a disinfectant solved in washing water to eliminate undesirable microorganisms harmful to consumers’ health and the shelf life of produce has been discussed for years. The disinfection efficacy depends on various factors, e.g., the location of microorganisms and the organic load of the washing water. The present study analyzed the sanitation efficacy of various concentrations of water-solved ClO₂ (cClO₂: 20 and 30 mg L⁻¹) on Escherichia coli (1.1 × 10⁴ cfu mL⁻¹), Salmonella enterica (2.0 × 10⁴ cfu mL⁻¹) and Listeria monocytogenes (1.7 × 10⁵ cfu mL⁻¹) loads, located on the leaf surface of iceberg lettuce assigned for fresh-cut salads. In addition, it examined the potential of ClO₂ to prevent the cross-contamination of these microbes in lettuce washing water containing a chemical oxygen demand (COD) content of 350 mg L⁻¹ after practice-relevant washing times of 1 and 2 min. On iceberg leaves, washing with 30 mg L⁻¹ ClO₂ pronouncedly (1 log) reduced loads of E. coli and S. enterica, while it only insignificantly (<0.5 × log) diminished the loads of L. monocytogenes, irrespective of the ClO₂ concentration used. Although the sanitation efficacy of ClO₂ washing was only limited, the addition of ClO₂ to the washing water avoided cross-contamination even at high organic loads. Thus, the application of ClO₂ to the lettuce washing water can improve product quality and consumer safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

20 pages, 834 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Growth Inhibitory and Selective Pressure Effects of Sodium Diacetate on the Spoilage Microbiota of Frankfurters Stored at 4 °C and 12 °C in Vacuum

by John Samelis and Athanasia Kakouri

Foods 2021, 10(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10010074 - 1 Jan 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2421

Abstract

This study evaluated microbial growth in commercial frankfurters formulated with 1.8% sodium lactate (SL) singly or combined with 0.25% sodium diacetate (SDA), vacuum-packaged (VP) and stored at 4 °C and 12 °C. Standard frankfurters without SDA, containing 0.15% SL, served as controls (CN). [...] Read more.

This study evaluated microbial growth in commercial frankfurters formulated with 1.8% sodium lactate (SL) singly or combined with 0.25% sodium diacetate (SDA), vacuum-packaged (VP) and stored at 4 °C and 12 °C. Standard frankfurters without SDA, containing 0.15% SL, served as controls (CN). Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were the exclusive spoilers in all treatments at both storage temperatures. However, compared to the CN and SL treatments, SL + SDA delayed growth of LAB by an average of 5.1 and 3.1 log units, and 3.0 and 2.0 log units, respectively, after 30 and 60 days at 4 °C. On day 90, the SL + SDA frankfurters were unspoiled whereas the SL and CN frankfurters had spoiled on day 60 and day 30 to 60, respectively. At 12 °C, LAB growth was similar in all treatments after day 15, but strong defects developed in the CN and SL frankfurters only. Differential spoilage patterns were associated with a major reversal of the LAB biota from gas- and slime-producing Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Leuconostoc carnosum in the CN and SL frankfurters to Lactobacillus sakei/curvatus in the SL + SDA frankfurters. Thus, SL + SDA extends the retail shelf life of VP frankfurters by delaying total LAB growth and selecting for lactobacilli with a milder cured meat spoilage potential than leuconostocs, particularly under refrigeration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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11 pages, 465 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exposure to Bacillus cereus in Water Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese

by Angela Michela Immacolata Montone, Federico Capuano, Andrea Mancusi, Orlandina Di Maro, Maria Francesca Peruzy, Yolande Thérèse Rose Proroga and Daniela Cristiano

Foods 2020, 9(12), 1899; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9121899 - 19 Dec 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3507

Abstract

Bacillus cereus is a spoilage bacterium and is recognized as an agent of food poisoning. Two food-borne illnesses are caused by B. cereus: a diarrheal disease, associated with cytotoxin K, hemolysin BL, non-hemolytic enterotoxin and enterotoxin FM, and an emetic syndrome, associated [...] Read more.

Bacillus cereus is a spoilage bacterium and is recognized as an agent of food poisoning. Two food-borne illnesses are caused by B. cereus: a diarrheal disease, associated with cytotoxin K, hemolysin BL, non-hemolytic enterotoxin and enterotoxin FM, and an emetic syndrome, associated with the cereulide toxin. Owing to the heat resistance of B. cereus and its ability to grow in milk, this organism should be considered potentially hazardous in dairy products. The present study assessed the risk of B. cereus poisoning due to the consumption of water buffalo mozzarella cheese. A total of 340 samples were analyzed to determine B. cereus counts (ISO 7932:2005); isolates underwent molecular characterization to detect the presence of genes encoding toxins. Eighty-nine (26.1%) samples harbored B. cereus strains, with values ranging from 2.2 × 10² to 2.6 × 10⁶ CFU/g. Isolates showed eight different molecular profiles, and some displayed virulence characteristics. Bacterial counts and the toxin profiles of isolates were evaluated both separately and jointly to assess the risk of enteritis due to B. cereus following the consumption of buffalo mozzarella cheese. In conclusion, the results of the present study showed that the risk of poisoning by B. cereus following the consumption of this cheese was moderate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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13 pages, 983 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of ESBL, AmpC and Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacterales Isolated from Raw Vegetables Retailed in Romania

by Ioana Alina Colosi, Alina Mihaela Baciu, Răzvan Vlad Opriș, Loredana Peca, Tristan Gudat, Laura Mihaela Simon, Horațiu Alexandru Colosi and Carmen Costache

Foods 2020, 9(12), 1726; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9121726 - 24 Nov 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3249

Abstract

(1) Background: As β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales are no longer exclusively associated with the health care system, investigating the potential risk they pose to the integrity of the environment and food safety has become of utmost importance. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of [...] Read more.

(1) Background: As β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales are no longer exclusively associated with the health care system, investigating the potential risk they pose to the integrity of the environment and food safety has become of utmost importance. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL), AmpC, and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales isolates from retailed raw vegetables and to determine if household washing is an effective method of lowering bacterial load; (2) Methods: Seasonal vegetables (n = 165) were acquired from supermarkets (n = 2) and farmer markets (n = 2) in Romania. Following sample processing and isolation, identification of Enterobacterales was performed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) multiplex was used to ascertain the presence of the main ESBL, AmpC, and Carbapenemase genes. Phenotypic antibiotic resistance profiles of isolates were determined by extended antibiograms. Enterobacteriaceae colony-forming units (CFU) counts were compared between vegetable types; (3) Results: Beta-lactamase producing bacteria were observed on 7.9% of vegetables, with 5.5% displaying ESBL/AmpC phenotype and 2.4% identified as Carbapenemase producers. The most frequently detected β-lactamase genes were bla_SHV (n = 4), followed by bla_CTX-M and bla_TEM (each with n = 3). Phenotypic antibiotic resistance analysis showed that 46% of isolates were multiple drug resistant, with aminoglycosides (38.5%) the most prevalent non-β-lactam resistance, followed by first-generation quinolones (38.5%). (4) Conclusions: The present study has described for the first time the presence of β-lactamase producing Enterobacterales in fresh produce retailed in Romania. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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18 pages, 710 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Contribution of Foods and Poor Food-Handling Practices to the Burden of Foodborne Infectious Diseases in France

by Jean-Christophe Augustin, Pauline Kooh, Thomas Bayeux, Laurent Guillier, Thierry Meyer, Nathalie Jourdan-Da Silva, Isabelle Villena, Moez Sanaa, Olivier Cerf and on Behalf of the Anses Working Group on Consumer Information on Foodborne Biological Risks

Foods 2020, 9(11), 1644; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9111644 - 11 Nov 2020

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 7287

Abstract

The foodborne disease burden (FBDB) related to 26 major biological hazards in France was attributed to foods and poor food-handling practices at the final food preparation step, in order to develop effective intervention strategies, especially food safety campaigns. Campylobacter spp. and non-typhoidal Salmonella [...] Read more.

The foodborne disease burden (FBDB) related to 26 major biological hazards in France was attributed to foods and poor food-handling practices at the final food preparation step, in order to develop effective intervention strategies, especially food safety campaigns. Campylobacter spp. and non-typhoidal Salmonella accounted for more than 60% of the FBDB. Approximately 30% of the FBDB were attributed to 11 other hazards including bacteria, viruses and parasites. Meats were estimated as the main contributing food category causing (50–69%) (CI90) of the FBDB with (33–44%), (9–21%), (4–20%) (CI90) of the FBDB for poultry, pork and beef, respectively. Dairy products, eggs, raw produce and complex foods caused each approximately (5–20%) (CI90) of the FBDB. When foods are contaminated before the final preparation step, we estimated that inadequate cooking, cross-contamination and inadequate storage contribute for (19–49%), (7–34%) and (9–23%) (CI90) of the FBDB, respectively; (15–33%) (CI90) of the FBDB were attributed to the initial contamination of ready-to-eat foods—without any contribution from final food handlers. The thorough implementation of good hygienic practices (GHPs) at the final food preparation step could potentially reduce the FBDB by (67–85%) (CI90) (mainly with the prevention of cross-contamination and adequate cooking and storage). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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19 pages, 3285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enteropathogenic Potential of Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates from Soil, Animals, Food and Biopesticides

by Valerie Schwenk, Janina Riegg, Monique Lacroix, Erwin Märtlbauer and Nadja Jessberger

Foods 2020, 9(10), 1484; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9101484 - 17 Oct 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4900

Abstract

Despite its benefits as biological insecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis bears enterotoxins, which can be responsible for a diarrhoeal type of food poisoning. Thus, all 24 isolates from foodstuffs, animals, soil and commercially used biopesticides tested in this study showed the genetic prerequisites necessary to [...] Read more.

Despite its benefits as biological insecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis bears enterotoxins, which can be responsible for a diarrhoeal type of food poisoning. Thus, all 24 isolates from foodstuffs, animals, soil and commercially used biopesticides tested in this study showed the genetic prerequisites necessary to provoke the disease. Moreover, though highly strain-specific, various isolates were able to germinate and also to actively move, which are further requirements for the onset of the disease. Most importantly, all isolates could grow under simulated intestinal conditions and produce significant amounts of enterotoxins. Cytotoxicity assays classified 14 isolates as highly, eight as medium and only two as low toxic. Additionally, growth inhibition by essential oils (EOs) was investigated as preventive measure against putatively enteropathogenic B. thuringiensis. Cinnamon Chinese cassia showed the highest antimicrobial activity, followed by citral, oregano and winter savory. In all tests, high strain-specific variations appeared and must be taken into account when evaluating the hazardous potential of B. thuringiensis and using EOs as antimicrobials. Altogether, the present study shows a non-negligible pathogenic potential of B. thuringiensis, independently from the origin of isolation. Generally, biopesticide strains were indistinguishable from other isolates. Thus, the use of these pesticides might indeed increase the risk for consumers’ health. Until complete information about the safety of the applied strains and formulations is available, consumers or manufacturers might benefit from the antimicrobial activity of EOs to reduce the level of contamination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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12 pages, 2032 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Behaviour of Non-O157 STEC and Atypical EPEC during the Manufacturing and Ripening of Raw Milk Cheese

by Edson A. Rios, Juliana Ramos-Pereira, Jesús A. Santos, Teresa M. López-Díaz, Andrés Otero and Jose M. Rodríguez-Calleja

Foods 2020, 9(9), 1215; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9091215 - 1 Sep 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2910

Abstract

This study was carried out to assess the survival of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (aEPEC) during the traditional manufacturing and ripening of Spanish hard cheese from raw cow’s milk. Milk samples were spiked with up to 3.1–3.5 [...] Read more.

This study was carried out to assess the survival of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (aEPEC) during the traditional manufacturing and ripening of Spanish hard cheese from raw cow’s milk. Milk samples were spiked with up to 3.1–3.5 log cfu/mL of one strain of STEC (O140:H32 serotype) and one of aEPEC (serotype O25:H2). The first steps of cheesemaking allow for a STEC and aEPEC increase of more than 1 log cfu/mL (up to 4.74 log cfu/g and 4.55 log cfu/g, respectively). After cheese pressing, a steady reduction of both populations was observed, with the STEC strain being more sensitive. The studied pathogenic E. coli populations decreased by 1.32 log cfu/g in STEC and 0.59 log cfu/g in aEPEC in cheese ripened during a minimum period of 60 d. Therefore, a moderate contamination by these diarrhoeagenic E. coli pathotypes, in particular, with aEPEC, on cheese manufactured from raw milk may not be totally controlled through the cheesemaking process and during a maturation of 90 d. These findings remark the importance of improvement in bacteriological quality of raw milk and cross-contamination prevention with diarrhoeagenic E. coli in the dairy industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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10 pages, 600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modelling of the Behaviour of Salmonella enterica serovar Reading on Commercial Fresh-Cut Iceberg Lettuce Stored at Different Temperatures

by Fatih Tarlak, Gro Johannessen, Isabel Bascón Villegas, Araceli Bolívar, Guiomar Denisse Posada-Izquierdo and Fernando Pérez-Rodríguez

Foods 2020, 9(7), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9070946 - 17 Jul 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3469

Abstract

The aim of this study was to model the growth and survival behaviour of Salmonella Reading and endogenous lactic acid bacteria on fresh pre-cut iceberg lettuce stored under modified atmosphere packaging for 10 days at different temperatures (4, 8 and 15 °C). The [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to model the growth and survival behaviour of Salmonella Reading and endogenous lactic acid bacteria on fresh pre-cut iceberg lettuce stored under modified atmosphere packaging for 10 days at different temperatures (4, 8 and 15 °C). The Baranyi and Weibull models were satisfactorily fitted to describe microbial growth and survival behaviour, respectively. Results indicated that lactic acid bacteria (LAB) could grow at all storage temperatures, while S. Reading grew only at 15 °C. Specific growth rate values (μ_max) for LAB ranged between 0.080 and 0.168 h⁻¹ corresponding to the temperatures 4 and 15 °C while for S. Reading at 15 °C, μ_max = 0.056 h⁻¹. This result was compared with published predictive microbiology models for other Salmonella serovars in leafy greens, revealing that predictions from specific models could be valid for such a temperature, provided they were developed specifically in lettuce regardless of the type of serovars inoculated. The parameter delta obtained from the Weibull model for the pathogen was found to be 16.03 and 18.81 for 4 and 8 °C, respectively, indicating that the pathogen underwent larger reduction levels at lower temperatures (2.8 log₁₀ decrease at 4 °C). These data suggest that this Salmonella serovar is especially sensitive to low temperatures, under the assayed conditions, while showcasing that a correct refrigeration could be an effective measure to control microbial risk in commercial packaged lettuce. Finally, the microbiological data and models from this study will be useful to consider more specifically the behaviour of S. Reading during transport and storage of fresh-cut lettuce, elucidating the contribution of this serovar to the risk by Salmonella in leafy green products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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Review

Jump to: Research

20 pages, 1884 KiB

Open AccessReview

Overview of the Potential Impacts of Climate Change on the Microbial Safety of the Dairy Industry

by Rodney J. Feliciano, Géraldine Boué and Jeanne-Marie Membré

Foods 2020, 9(12), 1794; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9121794 - 3 Dec 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7513

Abstract

Climate change is expected to affect many different sectors across the food supply chain. The current review paper presents an overview of the effects of climate change on the microbial safety of the dairy supply chain and suggest potential mitigation strategies to limit [...] Read more.

Climate change is expected to affect many different sectors across the food supply chain. The current review paper presents an overview of the effects of climate change on the microbial safety of the dairy supply chain and suggest potential mitigation strategies to limit the impact. Raw milk, the common raw material of dairy products, is vulnerable to climate change, influenced by changes in average temperature and amount of precipitation. This would induce changes in the microbial profile and heat stress in lactating cows, increasing susceptibility to microbial infection and higher levels of microbial contamination. Moreover, climate change affects the entire dairy supply chain and necessitates adaptation of all the current food safety management programs. In particular, the review of current prerequisite programs might be needed as well as revisiting the current microbial specifications of the receiving dairy products and the introduction of new pretreatments with stringent processing regimes. The effects on microbial changes during distribution and consumer handling also would need to be quantified through the use of predictive models. The development of Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) models, considering the whole farm-to-fork chain to evaluate risk mitigation strategies, will be a key step to prioritize actions towards a climate change-resilient dairy industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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21 pages, 970 KiB

Open AccessReview

Critical Analysis of Pork QMRA Focusing on Slaughterhouses: Lessons from the Past and Future Trends

by Ammar Hdaifeh, Tahreem Khalid, Géraldine Boué, Enda Cummins, Sandrine Guillou, Michel Federighi and Vincent Tesson

Foods 2020, 9(11), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9111704 - 20 Nov 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 8323

Abstract

Foodborne microbial diseases have a significant impact on public health, leading to millions of human illnesses each year worldwide. Pork is one of the most consumed meat in Europe but may also be a major source of pathogens introduced all along the farm-to-fork [...] Read more.

Foodborne microbial diseases have a significant impact on public health, leading to millions of human illnesses each year worldwide. Pork is one of the most consumed meat in Europe but may also be a major source of pathogens introduced all along the farm-to-fork chain. Several quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) have been developed to assess human health risks associated with pork consumption and to evaluate the efficiency of different risk reduction strategies. The present critical analysis aims to review pork QMRA. An exhaustive search was conducted following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology. It resulted in identification of a collection of 2489 papers including 42 on QMRA, after screening. Among them, a total of 29 studies focused on Salmonella spp. with clear concern on impacts at the slaughterhouse, modeling the spreading of contaminations and growth at critical stages along with potential reductions. Along with strict compliance with good hygiene practices, several potential risk mitigation pathways were highlighted for each slaughterhouse step. The slaughterhouse has a key role to play to ensure food safety of pork-based products but consideration of the whole farm-to-fork chain is necessary to enable better control of bacteria. This review provides an analysis of pork meat QMRA, to facilitate their reuse, and identify gaps to guide future research activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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26 pages, 1514 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review of Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment in Poultry Meat: The Central Position of Consumer Behavior

by Tahreem Khalid, Ammar Hdaifeh, Michel Federighi, Enda Cummins, Géraldine Boué, Sandrine Guillou and Vincent Tesson

Foods 2020, 9(11), 1661; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9111661 - 13 Nov 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8174

Abstract

Food of animal origin, especially meat products, represent the main vehicle of foodborne pathogens and so are implicated in foodborne outbreaks. Poultry meat is a widely consumed food in various forms, but it is also a reservoir of thermotolerant Campylobacter and Salmonella bacterial [...] Read more.

Food of animal origin, especially meat products, represent the main vehicle of foodborne pathogens and so are implicated in foodborne outbreaks. Poultry meat is a widely consumed food in various forms, but it is also a reservoir of thermotolerant Campylobacter and Salmonella bacterial species. To assess human health risks associated with pathogenic bacteria in poultry meat, the use of quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) has increased over the years as it is recognized to address complex food safety issues and is recommended by health authorities. The present project reviewed poultry meat QMRA, identified key steps of the farm-to-fork chain with significant impacts on food safety, highlighted current knowledge gaps, and provided risk mitigation advices. A PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses)-based systematic analysis was carried out and enabled the collection of 4056 studies including 43 QMRA kept for analysis after screening. The latter emphasized Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. contaminations during the consumer stage as the main concern. The role of consumer handling on cross-contamination and undercooking events were of major concern. Thus, proper hygiene and safety practices by consumers have been suggested as the main intervention and would need to be followed with regular surveys to assess behavior changes and reduce knowledge gaps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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35 pages, 421 KiB

Open AccessReview

Detection of Bacterial Pathogens and Antibiotic Residues in Chicken Meat: A Review

by Harsh Kumar, Kanchan Bhardwaj, Talwinder Kaur, Eugenie Nepovimova, Kamil Kuča, Vinod Kumar, Shashi Kant Bhatia, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Chirag Chopra, Reena Singh, Shivani Guleria, Tek Chand Bhalla, Rachna Verma and Dinesh Kumar

Foods 2020, 9(10), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9101504 - 20 Oct 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 9550

Abstract

Detection of pathogenic microbes as well as antibiotic residues in food animals, especially in chicken, has become a matter of food security worldwide. The association of various pathogenic bacteria in different diseases and selective pressure induced by accumulated antibiotic residue to develop antibiotic [...] Read more.

Detection of pathogenic microbes as well as antibiotic residues in food animals, especially in chicken, has become a matter of food security worldwide. The association of various pathogenic bacteria in different diseases and selective pressure induced by accumulated antibiotic residue to develop antibiotic resistance is also emerging as the threat to human health. These challenges have made the containment of pathogenic bacteria and early detection of antibiotic residue highly crucial for robust and precise detection. However, the traditional culture-based approaches are well-comprehended for identifying microbes. Nevertheless, because they are inadequate, time-consuming and laborious, these conventional methods are not predominantly used. Therefore, it has become essential to explore alternatives for the easy and robust detection of pathogenic microbes and antibiotic residue in the food source. Presently, different monitoring, as well as detection techniques like PCR-based, assay (nucleic acid)-based, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA)-based, aptamer-based, biosensor-based, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry-based and electronic nose-based methods, have been developed for detecting the presence of bacterial contaminants and antibiotic residues. The current review intends to summarize the different techniques and underline the potential of every method used for the detection of bacterial pathogens and antibiotic residue in chicken meat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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23 pages, 1171 KiB

Open AccessReview

Control of Foodborne Biological Hazards by Ionizing Radiations

by Muhammad Tanveer Munir and Michel Federighi

Foods 2020, 9(7), 878; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9070878 - 3 Jul 2020

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 9722

Abstract

Ionization radiations are used to ensure food safety and quality. This irradiation process uses ions of beta or gamma rays to inactivate or destroy the food spoilage pests, microorganisms and their toxins without significantly increasing the temperature of the treated product. Meanwhile, various [...] Read more.

Ionization radiations are used to ensure food safety and quality. This irradiation process uses ions of beta or gamma rays to inactivate or destroy the food spoilage pests, microorganisms and their toxins without significantly increasing the temperature of the treated product. Meanwhile, various intrinsic and extrinsic factors are involved in determining the efficacy of ionization irradiation against these organisms. Therefore, the dose of radiations is recommended according to the type of irradiation, substrate and microorganisms. However, controversies are surrounding the use of irradiations in the food industry due to a negative perception of irradiations. This manuscript described the use of ionization radiations to control the foodborne biological hazards and increase shelf life. Firstly, the characteristics and mode of action of irradiations were discussed. Secondly, the role of extrinsic and intrinsic factors influencing the radioresistance of biological hazards were elaborated. This literature review also detailed the differential effects of irradiations on different microorganisms and pests having a role in food safety and deterioration. Finally, the regulatory status and the consumer values along with the controversies surrounding the use of ionization irradiations in the food sector were explained. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Foodborne Microorganisms: Detection, Control, Risk Assessment and Prevention)

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