Foodborne Research Articles

From Soil to Salad: Strategies for Reducing Foodborne Illness Outbreaks

ABSTRACTThis study addresses the global issue of foodborne illness, specifically focusing on those resulting from the consumption of leafy green vegetables. It explores the rising trend of consuming minimally processed or raw foods and the imperative of maintaining safety standards starting at the preharvest stage to prevent pathogenic bacterial contamination. The study identifies soil and irrigation water as key sources of pathogens and emphasizes the need for strict preventive measures during production and preharvest. It discusses the challenges of postharvest decontamination and highlights the importance of early‐stage prevention strategies. The paper also examines advanced pathogen detection methods and food safety practices recommended by USDA and FSMA's PSR, including HACCP and LGMA strategies. Aimed at providing insights for consumers and producers, the study underscores the necessity of effective manufacturing strategies to ensure the safety of leafy greens.

ANALISIS GOOD MANUFACTURING PRACTICES (GMP) DI PANTI SOSIAL LANJUT USIA MANDALIKA

Diseases transmitted through food or WHO calls them food-borne diseases (Food Borne Diseases) are infectious diseases or poisoning caused by microbes or agents that enter the body through the food consumed. This research aims to find out how GMP is implemented in food management at the Mandalika Social Home for the Elderly and recommend follow-up actions. This qualitative research uses a descriptive analysis approach. This research uses informants, namely nutritionists, as providers of information regarding the situation and conditions of the research setting with instruments as interview tools. Data analysis in this research uses the GAP Analysis method, namely to analyze the gaps that occur in the implementation of GMP at the Mandalika Elderly Social Home followed by recommending follow-up actions on aspects that have a low average score. This research shows that the implementation of GMP in the Mandalika Social Home for the Elderly is 79.59% with the highest implementation being in the aspects of materials, final products and packaging, namely 100%, while the lowest implementation is in the laboratory aspect, labels and product descriptions, training and record keeping with percentages by 40%.

Portable foodborne pathogen detection via ratiometric fluorescence nanoprobe for adenosine triphosphate quantification based on DNA-functionalized metal-organic framework.

The increasing incidence of foodborne illnesses highlights the need for rapid, sensitive, and portable methods to detect pathogenic bacteria in food. In this work, we develop a portable method that utilizes a ratiometric fluorescence nanoprobe for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) quantification. The nanoprobe is constructed by encapsulating Ru(bpy)32+ within a zirconium-based metal-organic framework, followed by functionalization of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). This design permits SYBR Green I (SGI) to intercalate into dsDNA, conferring the nanoprobe with dual-emission property. The presence of ATP disrupts dsDNA structure, quenching SGI fluorescence while maintaining Ru(bpy)32+ fluorescence, providing a stable reference signal. This differential response enables the nanoprobe to achieve ratiometric ATP detection with high precision and sensitivity, with a detection limit of 0.63 μM. Since ATP is a reliable biomarker for viable bacterial cells, a portable hydrogel kit was further developed by integrating the ratiometric fluorescence nanoprobe into an agarose hydrogel matrix. The validation of the kit was conducted using a smartphone application for color recognition, enabling the rapid and on-site detection of pathogens in milk samples. The kit exhibits exceptional sensitivity with a detection limit of 10 CFU/mL, making it a promising tool for real-time bacteria detection in food safety monitoring.

A Listeria monocytogenes aptasensor on laser inscribed graphene for food safety monitoring in hydroponic water

AbstractConsumption of fresh produce, such as leafy greens, is often encouraged as part of a healthy diet. Hence, indoor facilities for hydroponic production of leafy greens are increasingly being established. However, fresh produce entails a higher risk of microbial foodborne illnesses than processed foods. Listeria monocytogenes is a major source of fresh produce contamination and is among the leading causes of severe foodborne illnesses in the United States, with a 16% mortality rate. Tools for rapid monitoring are needed for pathogens such as L. monocytogenes to prevent outbreaks. In this manuscript, we have demonstrated the feasibility of a multi-aptamer approach for development of label-free aptasensors targeting L. monocytogenes in irrigation water for lettuce hydroponic production. We use screening studies with surface plasmon resonance to rationally develop mixtures of relevant aptamers for targeting L. monocytogenes. Based on this screening, multiple aptamers targeting extracellular structures on intact L. monocytogenes were tethered to platinum-modified laser inscribed graphene electrodes. This is the first report of a L. monocytogenes biosensor based on laser inscribed graphene. We show that mixing multiple aptamers with varying affinity improves the diagnostic performance over one aptamer alone in complex sample matrices (lettuce hydroponic water). Multi-aptamer biosensors showed high accuracy for L. monocytogenes and were at least three times more selective than Escherichia coli (Crooks, K12, O157:H7) with an accuracy of 85%. The limit of detection (10 CFU/10 mL) is based on data which were significantly different after calibration toward L. monocytogenes or E. coli (Crooks) and validated against gold standard molecular analysis (polymerase chain reaction). Rapid screening of pathogens is a global need to meet food safety and water quality regulations. This study shows the importance of sensors targeting more than one bacterial surface structure in complex samples relevant to the food-water nexus.

Geography, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Genomics of Salmonella enterica (Serotypes Newport and Anatum) from Meat in Mexico (2021–2023)

Salmonella enterica non-typhoidal is a major contributor to diarrheal diseases, with over 2600 serovars identified across diverse environments. In Mexico, serovars Newport and Anatum have shown a marked increase, especially in foodborne disease, posing a public health problem. We conducted a cross-sectional study from 2021 to 2023 using active epidemiological surveillance to assess contamination in ground beef and pork at butcher shops nationwide. It involved isolation, phenotypic antimicrobial resistance, comparative genomics, spatial distribution, antimicrobial-resistance genes, and pangenome analysis. A total of 402 non-typhoidal S. enterica strains were isolated, including 59 Newport and 50 Anatum. After curating for redundancy, 45 Newport and 32 Anatum strains remained. We found that 75% of Newport strains exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR), compared to 25% of Anatum strains. Salmonella Newport also showed a broader distribution and stronger antibiotic-resistance capacity, particularly due to genes such as mphA and ramA. Our pangenome analysis showed a predominance of cell maintenance and survival-process genes in the accessory genome of both serotypes. Considering unique genes, Salmonella Anatum and Newport showed a notorious abundance of genes with functions related to replication, recombination, and repair. The substantial rise of Anatum and Newport strains in meat samples for human consumption presents an epidemiological alert, highlighting the critical need for stringent surveillance programs to mitigate human and ecosystem health risks.

Combinatorial Treatment with Praziquantel and Curcumin Reduces Clonorchis sinensis Parasite Burden and Clonorchiasis-Associated Pathologies in Rats

Background/Objectives: Clonorchiasis is a foodborne parasitic disease that can lead to severe biliary fibrosis and cholangiocarcinoma. While praziquantel (PZQ) is available for clonorchiasis treatment, it cannot revert the histopathological damage incurred through parasite-induced fibrosis. Curcumin (CUR) is an emerging experimental drug possessing anti-inflammatory and fibrosis-alleviating effects, thus signifying its potential as an anthelmintic drug. Here, we evaluated the effect of CUR+PZQ combinatorial drug treatment on C. sinensis infection as well as its effect on ameliorating fibrotic tissue damage in rats. Methods: Worm viabilities following CUR and PZQ treatments were confirmed through microscopy and tetrazolium salt absorption. Anthelminthic effect and hepatobiliary damage mitigation in rats were determined by quantifying worm recovery, histopathological staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: CUR+PZQ at LD50 doses demonstrated a time- and dose-dependent antiparasitic effect in vitro, which was markedly greater than either drug alone. Rats were infected with C. sinensis, and drugs were administered at 1 and 4 weeks post-infection (wpi) to assess drug-induced changes in worm burden. Significant reductions in worm burden recoveries were observed following CUR+PZQ treatment at both time points, accompanied by markedly reduced serum and mucosal IgG responses. ALT and AST levels were also substantially lower in combinatorial drug treatment groups than controls. Histopathological examinations confirmed that parasite-induced bile duct lumen widening and liver fibrosis were suppressed at 1 wpi, implying that CUR+PZQ co-treatment can alleviate clonorchiasis-associated pathologies. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that CUR+PZQ co-treatment improved parasite clearance and promoted the resolution of hepatobiliary tissue damage resulting from chronic clonorchiasis.

ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE IN FOODBORNE PATHOGENS: GLOBAL EPIDEMIOLOGICAL INSIGHTS, MECHANISTIC CHALLENGES, AND CUTTING-EDGE DETECTION

Background: Foodborne pathogens’ AMR is considered one of the most significant risks to food safety and human health worldwide.This situation has been worsened by the misuse of antibiotics in livestock farming, making it hard to handle food borne illnesses andhigher rates of sickness and death. Objectives: The main objective of this work is to present a review of the epidemiological data on AMR in foodborne pathogens on a global level, to discuss the genetic and biochemical basis of resistance, and to analyze new approaches to diagnostics and prevention. Methods: The current literature was systematically reviewed to evaluate the incidence and factors related to AMR in these important pathogens; Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Campylobacter spp., and Listeria monocytogenes. The study also discusses additional and more sophisticated diagnostic techniques such as CRISPR-based systems, and non-conventional forms of treatment like bacteriophages and antimicrobial peptides. Results: The data indicates that AMR continues to emerge in foodborne pathogens owing to factors such as intensive farming practices and global food trade, and environmental exposure. Some of the advanced diagnostic systems include metagenomics and point-of-care that can quickly and accurately identify the genes that cause resistance. It is, therefore, evident that nontraditional therapies hold promise in containing AMR but they have to be developed to a greater extent. Conclusions: AMR in foodborne pathogens requires a multifaceted approach involving accurate diagnostics, novel therapeutics, and cross-country cooperation. For this reason, there is need to embrace One Health approach to reduce the effect of AMR on health, food and the environment.

Essential Oils as Potential Natural Antioxidants, Antimicrobial, and Antifungal Agents in Active Food Packaging

In the last few years, there has been growing interest in the harmful impact of synthetic additives, the increased consumer focus on nutrition, and their unwillingness to use antibiotics and preservatives. The food industry has been driven to seek natural alternatives to synthetic antioxidants and integrate them into the production processes. Moreover, the most significant risk factor for foodborne illness is the consumption of raw or undercooked meats and milk, which may be contaminated with Listeria spp., Campylobacter spp., or Salmonella spp. This article presents a review of techniques for the functional properties of biopolymer particles loaded with essential oils that form a stable network to control their release, making them ideal for improving food packaging and processing. Such substances are employed in the manufacture of packaging materials and coated films and as emulsions, nanoemulsions, and coatings directly incorporated into the food matrix. It is of paramount importance to gain an understanding of the migration mechanism and potential interactions between packaging materials and foodstuffs. A more profound comprehension of the chemical constitution and biological characteristics of these extracts and their constituents would be advantageous for the identification of prospective applications in active food packaging. The findings of our study suggest the existence of certain constraints and deficiencies in the investigation of essential oils and their efficacy in food packaging. Consequently, further comprehensive research in this domain is imperative.

Biological Hazards and Indicators Found in Products of Animal Origin in Cambodia from 2000 to 2022: A Systematic Review

Biological hazards in products of animal origin pose a significant threat to human health. In Cambodia, there are few comprehensive data and information on the causes of foodborne diseases or risks. To date, there has been no known published study similar to this review. This systematic review is aimed to investigate the prevalence of biological hazards and their indicators in products of animal origin from 2000 to 2022. The main objective of this study was also to contribute to strengthening Cambodia’s food control system. This review followed the established “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) guidelines. In total, 46 studies were retained for complete review. Most studies (n = 40) had been conducted by or with external researchers, reflecting the under-resourcing of the National Food Control System in terms of surveillance; areas outside the capital were relatively understudied, reflecting evidence found in Ethiopia and Burkina Faso. Five categories of hazards were reported with the highest number of studies on fish parasites. Marketed fish, often originating from different countries, had a higher mean value of parasite prevalence (58.85%) than wild-caught fish (16.46%). Viral pathogens in bat meat presented a potential spillover risk. Many potentially important hazards had not yet been studied or reported (e.g., Norovirus, Shigella, toxin-producing Escherichia coli, and Vibrio cholerae). The findings of our review highlighted significant urgencies for national competent authorities to enhance food hygiene practices along the production chain, tackle import control, and enforce the implementation of a traceability system, alongside more research collaboration with neighboring countries and key trading partners. It is crucial to conduct more extensive research on food safety risk analysis, focusing on the identification and understanding of various biological hazards and their associated risk factors in food.

A Comprehensive Review on Preparation of Silver Nanoparticles from a Bacteriocin for the Natural Preservation of Food Products.

Food preservation aims to maintain safe and nutritious food for extended periods by inhibiting microbial growth that causes spoilage and poses health risks. Traditional chemical preservatives like sodium sulfite, sodium nitrite, sodium benzoate, tBHQ and BHA have raised concerns due to potential carcinogenicity, genotoxicity and allergies with long-term consumption. As a natural alternative, bacteriocins have emerged for food preservation. These ribosomally synthesised antimicrobial peptides are produced by various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and yeast, typically during their stationary growth phase. Bacteriocins are categorised into four classes based on structure and function, with molecular weights averaging between 30 and 80kDa. They exhibit antimicrobial activity against a range of bacteria, mediating complex interactions between bacterial species and enhancing competitiveness and survival of producer strains. Both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria produce bacteriocins. Recent advancements have identified and optimized bacteriocins for applications in food technology, extending shelf life, managing foodborne illnesses and contributing to public health preservation. Their eco-friendly nature and safety profile make bacteriocins promising for future food preservation strategies without detrimental effects on humans or animals. The current review has mainly focused on the preservation of food products using bacteriocin.

A novel dual fluorescence and visual method based on a DNA hydrogel-CRISPR biosensor for precise quantitative detection of Salmonella Typhimurium

Foodborne diseases caused by foodborne pathogens are a significant global public health issue. This study presents a novel fluorescent and visual dual biosensor for the sensitive and accurate detection of Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium), utilizing the CRISPR/Cas12a system and DNA hydrogel rapid response. The target DNA extracted from bacteria was first amplified by PCR, activating Cas12a trans-cleavage activity for secondary amplification. DNA hydrogel was incorporated by ssDNA linkers that were then cleaved, dissolving the quenched hydrogel and restoring fluorescence for signal transduction. Detection results were obtained either through a microplate reader for fluorescence or a smartphone and other portable device for visual detection. The fluorescence method exhibited a good linear relationship ranging from 6.2×102 to 6.2×106 CFU/mL of S. Typhimurium, with a detection limit of 150 CFU/mL. The smartphone-based visual inspection method also demonstrated a linear relationship in the same range, with a detection limit of 323 CFU/mL. These dual methods address the limitations in biosensor stability, sensitivity, and dependence on specialized technical expertise and equipment, providing a novel and cost-effective approach for detecting foodborne pathogens.

Bacteriocin CM175, a new high molecular weight and phage associated protein produced by Pediococcus pentosaceus CM175

Bacteriocins are proteins with antimicrobial capacity produced by different bacteria. Developing bacteriocin-based technologies could be an effective strategy to address current problems in the pharmaceutical and food industries, including limited therapeutic options against superbug infections, foodborne diseases, and food spoilage microorganisms. The lactic acid bacteria Pediococcus pentosaceus are known producers of bacteriocins. Particularly, Ped. pentosaceus strain CM175 has been reported to produce an uncharacterized bacteriocin-like inhibitory substance (BLIS) with an interesting antibacterial spectrum against Gram-positive and -negative pathogenic bacteria. The objective of the present study was to explore whether the BLIS produced by CM175 contains at least one bacteriocin, and identify it. Our results showed that the CM175 strain produced a non-previously characterized antimicrobial protein of 49 kDa identified by mass spectrometry as a phage-related protein, named bacteriocin CM175. Through fluorescence and transmission electron microscopies, it was demonstrated that bacteriocin CM175 damages the cell membrane integrity of Listeria monocytogenes through a non-lytic mechanism. Bacteriocin CM175 is the first high molecular weight and phage protein-like bacteriocin reported in Ped. pentosaceus. The results of this study open the possibility of exploring various applications directly related to the antimicrobial potential of bacteriocin CM175, including the development of antibiotics, and disinfectants.

Intelligent Identification of Foodborne Pathogenic Bacteria by Self-Transfer Deep Learning and Ensemble Prediction Based on Single-Cell Raman Spectrum

Foodborne pathogenic infections pose a significant threat to human health. Accurate detection of foodborne diseases is essential in preventing disease transmission. This study proposed an AI model for precisely identifying foodborne pathogenic bacteria based on single-cell Raman spectrum. Self-transfer deep learning and ensemble prediction algorithms had been incorporated into the model framework to improve training efficiency and predictive performance, significantly improving prediction results. Our model can identify simultaneously gram-negative and positive, genus, species of foodborne pathogenic bacteria with an accuracy over 99.99%, as well as recognized strain with over 99.49%. At all four classification levels, unprecedented excellent predictive performance had been achieved. This advancement holds practical significance for medical detection and diagnosis of foodborne diseases by reducing false negatives.

Gb3 trisaccharide-bearing exosomes as a novel neutralizer for Shiga toxin type 1

Shiga toxin types 1 (Stx1) and 2 (Stx2), produced by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Shigella dysenteriae, are key virulence factors responsible for severe foodborne diseases, such as hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The receptors for Stxs are Gb3 and P1 glycotope, which contain the Galα1→4Galβ epitope and are synthesized by human α1,4-galactosyltransferase (A4galt). Stx-related infections pose a global public health challenge, owing to the limited therapeutic options due to the restricted use of antibiotics. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic strategies. This study proposes an innovative strategy utilizing exosomes derived from CHO-Lec2 cells, which were modified with Functional-Spacer-Lipid (FSL) conjugates bearing the Gb3 carbohydrate epitope (exo-Gb3-FSL). Flow cytometry analysis confirmed the presence of Galα1→4Galβ disaccharides on exo-Gb3-FSL constructs, enabling them to bind Stx1. Moreover, using CHO-Lec2 cells verified the ability of exo-Gb3-FSL agents to bind Stx1 and protect these cells from Stx1-mediated cytotoxicity. For Stx1-treated CHO-Lec2 cells, increased cell survival was observed when using 25 μM exo-Gb3-FSL constructs, compared to control cells. These findings highlight the potential of exosome-based anti-Stx1 agents as promising alternatives to conventional therapies. This innovative strategy may provide novel directions for studies on Stx1 neutralization, offering a valuable strategy for the treatment of Stx-related diseases.

Plant Mediated Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Butea monosperma Plant Extract and Their Antibacterial Applications

Plant based nanoparticles (NPs) has become an emerging field in nanotechnology in terms of cost efficiency, less hazardous, biocompatibility and ecologically benignancy. Further, These NPs are being extensively studied for their use as nanomedicines and novel antibacterial agents due to increased growth of hazardous bacteria and their increased resistance to traditional antibiotics. The present studies focused on biosynthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs using the chloride derivative of zinc and aqueous extract of Butea monosperma (BM) plant and its antibacterial applications on food borne pathogens. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals the formation of mixed shaped (spherical and hexagonal) ZnO NPs with size ranging between 20-90 nm. The elemental composition of various constituents present in the resulting samples was confirmed from energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). XRD pattern suggested crystalline nature with hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO NPs. The Scherrer formula is used to evaluate the average crystallite size of the synthesized NPs ranges from 15 to 85 nm. Furthermore, the Tauc plot method was employed to determine the bandgap energies of the biosynthesized ZnO NPs using UV-visible spectra. These NPs were found to be effective against bacterial strains; Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 96), Bacillus cereus (MTCC 1272), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (MTCC 4383), Shigella flexneri (MTCC 1457). Overall, this present research describes that synthesized ZnO NPs hold significant importance as potential antibacterial agents against gram positive bacteria.

Spread Bacterial Toxins through Food

Background: Bacterial toxins in food cause widespread foodborne illnesses. These illnesses are a major public health concern globally. Bacteria are responsible for most food poisoning cases. Food safety measures are crucial to prevent the spread of these toxins. Millions of people are affected by foodborne illnesses annually, leading to hospitalizations and deaths. The problem is exacerbated by global socioeconomic development and the increasing complexity of food supply chains. Objective This study aimed to review the spread of bacterial toxins through food. Discussion Bacterial toxins in food cause widespread illness and death. Poor food handling, weak regulations, and inadequate education contribute to the problem. Common foodborne pathogens include Campylobacter spp., E. coli, Non-typhoid salmonellosis. Bacillus cereus. Shigella spp., and Listeria monocytogenes. These bacteria produce toxins that cause various illnesses, such as diarrhea and kidney failure. Improving food safety practices is crucial to prevent the spread of bacterial toxins. Conclusion The intricate problem of bacterial toxins spread through food necessitates enhancing food handling, improving sanitation practices, reinforcing regulations, and educating food handlers are vital measures to enhance food safety and reduce foodborne illnesses caused by bacterial toxins.

Case of Fatal Hepatitis Related to HEV-3 Infection in Central Italy

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a global health problem, causing an estimated 20 million infections annually. Thus, the management of HEV requires special consideration. In developed countries, hepatitis E is mainly recognized as a foodborne disease (mainly transmitted via undercooked meat consumption) that is generally caused by genotype 3 and 4 circulating in various animals, including pigs and wild boars. The current absence of officially recognized protocols for the analysis of HEV in foods and the lack of awareness of this disease among healthcare workers, together with the high percentage of asymptomatic cases, make HEV infection highly underestimated. Most HEV-3 infections in immunocompetent individuals are self-limited. Nevertheless, the possibility of serious forms of liver disease, especially in patients with co-morbidities, should be considered because it can lead to a fatal outcome. Here, we report a case of fatal hepatitis related to HEV-3 infection in a 67-year-old male patient with underlying chronic liver disease (CLD) and living in a region where a high prevalence and genetic heterogeneity of HEV-3 in wild boar has been recently demonstrated. Our case report describes the interdisciplinary approach used (from the diagnosis to the virus phylogenetic characterization) in order to improve epidemiologic HEV surveillance in central Italy.

MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF READY-TO-EAT FOODSIN BENIN: BIOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTAND HEALTH RISKS

In sub-Saharan Africa, the food trade represents a significant aspect of human activity. In Benin, public markets and other street stalls represent a significant presence. However, most vendors lack the basic infrastructure required to ensure product safety. Traditional foodstuffs, such as dried fish and other products that are not preserved, present a significant health risk owing to the presence of biological pathogens,which can cause significant damage to human health if ingested. Foods containing biological pathogens are thought to cause over 200 diseases.Africa, particularly Benin, is currently experiencing tremendous economic expansion and is of great interest for eliminating or minimizing the danger of food-borne diseases. Therefore, it is important to assess the type of pathogen responsible and the circumstances in which it causes health problems. This review considers the stock of biological contaminants in foods sold in Benin, the associated health risks, and highlights the food safety practices.

Bacteriocinogenic Activity of Lysinibacillus fusiformis NR_042072.1 Isolated from Cow Milk

The prevailing increase in the search for bio-preservative in the food industry has raised a global concern. Biological substances with health benefits and no toxicity are being considered as alternatives to chemical in food processing. Bacteriocin which are proteinous substances with preservative properties are now gaining attention in this regard and the search for new organisms for the production is becoming global. This study was focused on study of bacteriocinogenic activity of a local strain of Lysinibacillus fusiformis NR_042072.1 isolated from fresh cow milk obtained from Gaa Mobolohunduro, Tanke, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Lactic acid bacteria was isolated from Cow milk, characterized and identified using standard microbiological methods. Bacteriocin was extracted from the isolate, partially purified and characterized using standard methods; and the antibacterial activity against some food borne bacteria which are Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis was determined using agar well diffusion method. Effect of certain physicochemical parameters on the antibacterial activity of the bacteriocin was also determined. The isolate was identified as Lysinibacillus fusiformis NR_042072.1. The bacteriocin showed antibacterial action against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with zone of inhibition of 17.0±0.5 and 20.0±1.0 mm against respectively. The bacteriocin was active within temperature of 4-50 0C, pH 5-7.5, bile salt concentration of 0.6-1.0 % and in the presence of the enzymes trypsin and pepsin. In conclusion, bacteriocin produced by Lysinibacillus fusiformis NR_042072.1 could be used to control food spoilage caused by the test organisms.

A Novel Application of B.EL.D™ Technology: Biosensor-Based Detection of Salmonella spp. in Food

The prevalence of foodborne diseases is continuously increasing, causing numerous hospitalizations and deaths, as well as money loss in the agri-food sector and food supply chain worldwide. The standard analyses currently used for bacteria detection have significant limitations with the most important being their long procedural time that can be crucial for foodborne outbreaks. In this study, a biosensor system able to perform robust and accurate detection of Salmonella spp. in meat products was developed. To achieve this, a portable device developed by EMBIO Diagnostics called B.EL.DTM (Bio Electric Diagnostics) and cell-based biosensor technology (BERA) were used. Results indicated that the new method could detect the pathogen within 24 h after a 3-min analysis and discriminate samples with and without Salmonella with high accuracy. Achieving an accuracy of 86.1% and a detection limit (LOD) of 1 log CFU g−1, this innovative technology enables rapid and sensitive identification of Salmonella spp. in meat and meat products, making it an excellent tool for pathogen screening.