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de Aragão Freire Ferreira Finger J, de Almeida Silva G, Bernardino MC, Andrade DKA, Maffei DF, Pinto UM. Investigating processing practices and microbiological quality of minimally processed vegetables in Brazil. Braz J Microbiol 2024; 55:1635-1646. [PMID: 38472699 PMCID: PMC11153469 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-024-01275-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Minimally processed vegetables (MPVs) are marketed as convenient and healthy choices for consumers. However, the absence of post-commercialization treatments raises concerns about their microbiological safety. This study investigated the processing practices of 28 Brazilian MPV plants and compared the microbiological quality of these products with fresh counterparts in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Through cluster analysis, the processing plants were categorized into two groups: group 1 (nineteen plants) primarily uses chemical substances in the washing step, while group 2 (nine plants) avoids chemical use but employs similar rinsing practices. Microbiological analysis of 100 samples (49 unprocessed and 51 MPVs) revealed no significant differences in microbial group counts (Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, and E. coli) between the in natura (unprocessed) and MPV products. However, the prevalence of E. coli was higher in natura vegetables than in MPVs. The results indicated the presence of Salmonella DNA (from either dead or live cells or residual DNA) in 4 samples (3 in natura and 1 MPV) using conventional PCR, suggesting the presence of the pathogen in these samples. Listeria monocytogenes was absent, but Listeria innocua was found in two unprocessed products. The study suggests that certain MPVs have microbial loads similar to unprocessed vegetables, potentially serving as carriers for pathogen transmission. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding practices in Brazilian MPV processing plants, informing the implementation of control measures to improve MPV safety and shelf-life, thus ensuring microbiological safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica de Aragão Freire Ferreira Finger
- Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Professor Lineu Prestes, 580. B14, Sao Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
- Food Research Center (FoRC-CEPID), Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Guilherme de Almeida Silva
- Department of Nutrition in Public Health, Faculty of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Calado Bernardino
- Department of Nutrition in Public Health, Faculty of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Dhuelly Kelly Almeida Andrade
- Department of Agri-Food Industry, Food and Nutrition, Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture, University of Sao Paulo, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniele Fernanda Maffei
- Food Research Center (FoRC-CEPID), Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Agri-Food Industry, Food and Nutrition, Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture, University of Sao Paulo, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Uelinton Manoel Pinto
- Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Professor Lineu Prestes, 580. B14, Sao Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil.
- Food Research Center (FoRC-CEPID), Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Alves JM, Alvarenga VO, Tavares da Silva R, de Souza Pedrosa GT, Silva FA, Bicca GB, Baldwin C, Schaffner DW, Magnani M. Predicting the impact of temperature and relative humidity on Salmonella growth and survival in sliced chard, broccoli and red cabbage. Food Microbiol 2024; 120:104495. [PMID: 38431315 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2024.104495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
This study assessed the fate of a Salmonella enterica cocktail (S. Typhimurium, S. Enteritidis, S. Newport, S. Agona and S. Anatum; initial counts 3.5 log CFU/g) in minimally processed sliced chard, broccoli and red cabbage at 16 conditions of different temperature (7, 14, 21 and 37 °C) and relative humidity (RH; 15, 35, 65 and 95%) over six days (144 h). Linear regression was used to estimate the rate change of Salmonella in cut vegetables as a function of temperature and relative humidity (RH). R2 value of 0.85, 0.87, and 0.78 were observed for the rates of change in chard, broccoli, and red cabbage, respectively. The interaction between temperature and RH was significant in all sliced vegetables. Higher temperatures and RH values favored Salmonella growth. As temperature or RH decreased, the rate of S. enterica change varied by vegetable. The models developed here can improve risk management of Salmonella in fresh cut vegetables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Morais Alves
- Laboratory of Microbial Processes in Foods, Department of Food Engineering, Technology Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-900, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Verônica Ortiz Alvarenga
- Department of Food, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ruthchelly Tavares da Silva
- Laboratory of Microbial Processes in Foods, Department of Food Engineering, Technology Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-900, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Geany Targino de Souza Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Microbial Processes in Foods, Department of Food Engineering, Technology Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-900, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Francyeli Araújo Silva
- Laboratory of Microbial Processes in Foods, Department of Food Engineering, Technology Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-900, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Gerson Balbueno Bicca
- Department of Food Engineering, Federal University of Rondônia, Ariquemes, Rondônia, Brazil
| | - Clif Baldwin
- Stockton University - Department of Data Science and Strategic Analytics, USA
| | - Donald W Schaffner
- Department of Food Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 65 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Marciane Magnani
- Laboratory of Microbial Processes in Foods, Department of Food Engineering, Technology Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-900, João Pessoa, Brazil.
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3
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Dong M, Kavannaugh M, Lee C, Feng H. Mircrofabricating double-sided polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) artificial phylloplane for microbial food safety research. Food Res Int 2024; 184:114252. [PMID: 38609230 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Leafy green surface microbiology studies often experience significant variations in results due to the heterogeneous nature of leaf surfaces. To provide a precise and controllable substitute, we microfabricated double-sided artificial leafy green phylloplanes using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with a vinyl-terminated polyethylene glycol chain-based hydrophobicity modifier (PDMS-PEG) to modify PDMS hydrophobicity. We further tested the properties and applications of these artificial leaves, by examining the function of epicuticular wax, growth and survival of E. coli O157:H7 87-23 on the surface, and removal of attached E. coli cells via sanitation. The double-sided PDMS-PDMS-PEG leaves well-replicated their natural counterparts in macroscopic and microscopic structure, hydrophobicity, and E. coli O157:H7 87-23 attachment. After depositing natural epicuticular wax onto artificial leaves, the leaf surface wetting ability decreased, while E. coli O157:H7 87-23 surface retention increased. The artificial leaves supplied with lettuce lysate or bacterial growth media supported E. coli O157:H7 87-23 growth and survival similarly to those on natural leaves. In the sanitation test, the artificial lettuce leaves also displayed patterns similar to those of natural leaves regarding sanitizer efficiency. Overall, this study showcased the microfabrication and applications of double-sided PDMS-PDMS-PEG leaves as a replicable and controllable platform for future leafy green food safety studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyi Dong
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, United States.
| | - Melannie Kavannaugh
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, United States.
| | - Caroline Lee
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, United States.
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, United States; Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, North Carolina Agriculture and Technology State University, Greensboro, NC 27401, United States.
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4
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Mukhopadhyay S, Ukuku DO, Olanya OM, Niemira BA, Jin ZT, Fan X. Combined treatment of pulsed light and nisin-organic acid based antimicrobial wash for inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Romaine lettuce, reduction of microbial loads, and retention of quality. Food Microbiol 2024; 118:104402. [PMID: 38049261 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2023.104402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Microbial safety of fresh produce continues to be a major concern. Novel antimicrobial methods are needed to minimize the risk of contamination. This study investigated the antimicrobial efficacy of pulsed light (PL), a novel nisin-organic acid based antimicrobial wash (AW) and the synergy thereof in inactivating E. coli O157:H7 on Romaine lettuce. Treatment effects on background microbiota and produce quality during storage at 4 °C for 7 days was also investigated. A bacterial cocktail containing three outbreak strains of E. coli O157:H7 was used as inoculum. Lettuce leaves were spot inoculated on the surface before treating with PL (1-60 s), AW (2 min) or combinations of PL with AW. PL treatment for 10 s, equivalent to fluence dose of 10.5 J/cm2, was optimal and resulted in 2.3 log CFU/g reduction of E. coli O157:H7, while a 2 min AW treatment, provided a comparable pathogen reduction of 2.2 log CFU/g. Two possible treatment sequences of PL and AW combinations were investigated. For PL-AW combination, inoculated lettuce leaves were initially exposed to optimum PL dose followed by 2 min AW treatment, whereas for AW-PL combination, inoculated lettuce were subjected to 2 min AW treatment prior to 10 s PL treatment. Both combination treatments (PL-AW and AW-PL) resulted in synergistic inactivation as E. coli cells were not detectable after treatment, indicating >5 log pathogen reductions. Combination treatments significantly (P < 0.05) reduced spoilage microbial populations on Romaine lettuce and also hindered their growth in storage for 7 days. The firmness and visual quality appearance of lettuce were not significantly (P > 0.05) influenced due to combination treatments. Overall, the results reveal that PL and AW combination treatments can be implemented as a novel approach to enhance microbial safety, quality and shelf life of Romaine lettuce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudarsan Mukhopadhyay
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit, Eastern Regional Research Center, Wyndmoor, PA, 19038, United States.
| | - Dike O Ukuku
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit, Eastern Regional Research Center, Wyndmoor, PA, 19038, United States
| | - Ocen M Olanya
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit, Eastern Regional Research Center, Wyndmoor, PA, 19038, United States
| | - Brendan A Niemira
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit, Eastern Regional Research Center, Wyndmoor, PA, 19038, United States
| | - Zhonglin T Jin
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit, Eastern Regional Research Center, Wyndmoor, PA, 19038, United States
| | - Xuetong Fan
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit, Eastern Regional Research Center, Wyndmoor, PA, 19038, United States
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Viviers SA, Richter L, du Plessis EM, Korsten L. Microbiological quality of irrigation water on highly diverse fresh produce smallholder farms: elucidating environmental routes of contamination. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae091. [PMID: 38632044 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the microbiological safety, potential multidrug-resistant bacterial presence and genetic relatedness (DNA fingerprints) of Escherichia coli isolated from the water-soil-plant nexus on highly diverse fresh produce smallholder farms. METHODS AND RESULTS Irrigation water (n = 44), soil (n = 85), and fresh produce (n = 95) samples from six smallholder farms with different production systems were analysed for hygiene indicator bacterial counts and the presence of shigatoxigenic E. coli and Salmonella spp. using standard microbiological methods. Identities of isolates were confirmed using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), and the genetic relatedness of the E. coli isolates determined using enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus polymerase chain reaction (ERIC-PCR) analysis. Irrigation water E. coli levels ranged between 0 and 3.45 log MPN/100 ml-1 with five farms having acceptable levels according to the World Health Organization limit (3 log MPN/100 ml-1). Fresh produce samples on four farms (n = 65) harboured E. coli at low levels (<1 log CFU/g-1) except for one sample from kale, spring onion, green pepper, onion, and two tomato samples, which exceeded international acceptable limits (100 CFU/g-1). Only one baby carrot fresh produce sample tested positive for Salmonella spp. Of the 224 samples, E. coli isolates were identified in 40% (n = 90) of all water, soil, and fresh produce types after enrichment. Additionally, the DNA fingerprints of E. coli isolates from the water-soil-plant nexus of each respective farm clustered together at high similarity values (>90%), with all phenotypically characterized as multidrug-resistant. CONCLUSIONS The clustering of E. coli isolated throughout the water-soil-plant nexus, implicated irrigation water in fresh produce contamination. Highlighting the importance of complying with irrigation water microbiological quality guidelines to limit the spread of potential foodborne pathogens throughout the fresh produce supply chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheldon A Viviers
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Loandi Richter
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Erika M du Plessis
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Lise Korsten
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
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Costa-Ribeiro A, Azinheiro S, Mota S, Prado M, Lamas A, Garrido-Maestu A. Assessment of the presence of Acinetobacter spp. resistant to β-lactams in commercial ready-to-eat salad samples. Food Microbiol 2024; 118:104410. [PMID: 38049272 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2023.104410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii is a well-known nosocomial infection causing agent. However, other Acinetobacter spp. have also been implicated in cases of human infection. Additionally, these bacteria are known for the development of antibiotic resistance thus making the treatment of the infections they cause, challenging. Due to their relevance in clinical setups less attention has been paid to their presence in foods, and its relation with infection/dissemination routes. In the current study commercial Ready-To-Eat (RTE) salads were analyzed seeking for antibiotic resistant Acinetobacter spp. A preliminary screening allowed us to recover Gram-negative bacteria resistant to β - lactams using cefotaxime, third generation cephalosporins, as the selective agent, and this was followed by identification with CHROMagar™ Acinetobacter and 16S rDNA sequencing. Finally, the isolates identified as Acinetobacter spp. were reanalyzed by PCR to determine the presence of nine potential Extended Spectrum β Lactamases (ESBL). Two commercial RTE salad brands were included in the study (2 batches per brand and 8 samples of each batch making a total of 32 independent samples), and compared against an organic lettuce. High concentrations of β - lactam, resistant bacteria were found in all the samples tested (5 log CFU/g). Additionally, 209 isolates were phenotypically characterized on CHROMagar Acinetobacter. Finally, PCR analysis identified the presence of different ESBL genes, being positive for blaACC, blaSHV, blaDHA and blaVEB; out of these, blaACC was the most prevalent. None of the isolates screened were positive for more than one gene. To conclude, it is important to highlight the fact that pathogenic species within the genus Acinetobacter spp., other than A. baumannii, have been identified bearing resistance genes not typically associated to these microorganisms highlight the importance of continuous surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Costa-Ribeiro
- Health and Environment Research Center, School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, R. Dr. Roberto Frias 712, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330, Braga, Portugal; Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Immunology, University of Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Spain
| | - Sarah Azinheiro
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330, Braga, Portugal; College of Pharmacy/School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Campus Vida, E-15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Sandra Mota
- Health and Environment Research Center, School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, R. Dr. Roberto Frias 712, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Prado
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330, Braga, Portugal; Food Hygiene, Inspection and Control Laboratory (Lhica), Department of Analytical Chemistry, Nutrition and Bromatology, Veterinary School, Campus Terra, University of Santiago de Compostela, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Alexandre Lamas
- Food Hygiene, Inspection and Control Laboratory (Lhica), Department of Analytical Chemistry, Nutrition and Bromatology, Veterinary School, Campus Terra, University of Santiago de Compostela, 27002, Lugo, Spain.
| | - Alejandro Garrido-Maestu
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330, Braga, Portugal.
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Zou J, Wong J, Lee CR, Nitin N, Wang L, Sun G. Protein-Based Rechargeable and Replaceable Antimicrobial and Antifouling Coatings on Hydrophobic Food-Contact Surfaces. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:1842-1851. [PMID: 38416807 PMCID: PMC10951945 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c01247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
The growing concerns regarding foodborne illnesses related to fresh produce accentuate the necessity for innovative material solutions, particularly on surfaces that come into close contact with foods. This study introduces a sustainable, efficient, and removable antimicrobial and antifouling coating ideally suited for hydrophobic food-contact surfaces such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Developed through a crosslinking reaction involving tannic acid, gelatin, and soy protein hydrolysate, these coatings exhibit proper stability in aqueous washing solutions and effectively combat bacterial contamination and prevent biofilm formation. The unique surface architecture promotes the formation of halamine structures, enhancing antimicrobial efficacy with a rapid contact killing effect and reducing microbial contamination by up to 5 log10 cfu·cm-2 against both Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) and Listeria innocua (Gram-positive). Notably, the coatings are designed for at least five recharging cycles under mild conditions (pH6, 20 ppm free active chlorine) and can be easily removed with hot water or steam to refresh the depositions. This removal process not only conveniently aligns with existing sanitation protocols in the fresh produce industry but also facilitates the complete eradication of potential developed biofilms, outperforming uncoated LDPE coupons. Overall, these coatings represent sustainable, cost-effective, and practical advancements in food safety and are promising candidates for widespread adoption in food processing environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahan Zou
- Department
of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Jody Wong
- Department
of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Chih-Rong Lee
- Department
of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Nitin Nitin
- Department
of Food Science and Technology, University
of California, One Shields
Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Luxin Wang
- Department
of Food Science and Technology, University
of California, One Shields
Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Gang Sun
- Department
of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
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8
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Guo M, Tian S, Wang W, Xie L, Xu H, Huang K. Biomimetic leaves with immobilized catalase for machine learning-enabled validating fresh produce sanitation processes. Food Res Int 2024; 179:114028. [PMID: 38342546 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Washing and sanitation are vital steps during the postharvest processing of fresh produce to reduce the microbial load on the produce surface. Although current process control and validation tools effectively predict sanitizer concentrations in wash water, they have significant limitations in assessing sanitizer effectiveness for reducing microbial counts on produce surfaces. These challenges highlight the urgent need to improve the validation of sanitation processes, especially considering the presence of dynamic organic contaminants and complex surface topographies. This study aims to provide the fresh produce industry with a novel, reliable, and highly accurate method for validating the sanitation efficacy on the produce surface. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using a food-grade, catalase (CAT)-immobilized biomimetic leaf in combination with vibrational spectroscopy and machine learning to predict microbial inactivation on microgreen surfaces. This was tested using two sanitizers: sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The developed CAT-immobilized leaf-replicated PDMS (CAT@L-PDMS) effectively mimics the microscale topographies and bacterial distribution on the leaf surface. Alterations in the FTIR spectra of CAT@L-PDMS, following simulated sanitation processes, indicate chemical changes due to CAT oxidation induced by NaClO or H2O2 treatments, facilitating the subsequent machine learning modeling. Among the five algorithms tested, the competitive adaptive reweighted sampling partial least squares discriminant analysis (CARS-PLSDA) algorithm was the most effective for classifying the inactivation efficacy of E. coli on microgreen leaf surfaces. It predicted bacterial reduction on microgreen surfaces with 100% accuracy in both training and prediction sets for NaClO, and 95% in the training set and 86% in the prediction set for H2O2. This approach can improve the validation of fresh produce sanitation processes and pave the way for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minyue Guo
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Shijie Tian
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wen Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, MOA Laboratory of Quality & Safety Risk Assessment for Agro-Products (Hangzhou), Institute of Agro-Product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Lijuan Xie
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Huirong Xu
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Kang Huang
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA.
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9
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Thomas GA, Paradell Gil T, Müller CT, Rogers HJ, Berger CN. From field to plate: How do bacterial enteric pathogens interact with ready-to-eat fruit and vegetables, causing disease outbreaks? Food Microbiol 2024; 117:104389. [PMID: 37919001 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2023.104389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Ready-to-eat fruit and vegetables are a convenient source of nutrients and fibre for consumers, and are generally safe to eat, but are vulnerable to contamination with human enteric bacterial pathogens. Over the last decade, Salmonella spp., pathogenic Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes have been linked to most of the bacterial outbreaks of foodborne illness associated with fresh produce. The origins of these outbreaks have been traced to multiple sources of contamination from pre-harvest (soil, seeds, irrigation water, domestic and wild animal faecal matter) or post-harvest operations (storage, preparation and packaging). These pathogens have developed multiple processes for successful attachment, survival and colonization conferring them the ability to adapt to multiple environments. However, these processes differ across bacterial strains from the same species, and across different plant species or cultivars. In a competitive environment, additional risk factors are the plant microbiome phyllosphere and the plant responses; both factors directly modulate the survival of the pathogens on the leaf's surface. Understanding the mechanisms involved in bacterial attachment to, colonization of, and proliferation, on fresh produce and the role of the plant in resisting bacterial contamination is therefore crucial to reducing future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth A Thomas
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Teresa Paradell Gil
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Carsten T Müller
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Hilary J Rogers
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Cedric N Berger
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK.
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10
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Koutsoumanis K, Ordóñez AA, Bolton D, Bover‐Cid S, Chemaly M, De Cesare A, Herman L, Hilbert F, Lindqvist R, Nauta M, Nonno R, Peixe L, Ru G, Simmons M, Skandamis P, Suffredini E, Banach J, Ottoson J, Zhou B, da Silva Felício MT, Jacxsens L, Martins JL, Messens W, Allende A. Microbiological hazards associated with the use of water in the post-harvest handling and processing operations of fresh and frozen fruits, vegetables and herbs (ffFVHs). Part 1 (outbreak data analysis, literature review and stakeholder questionnaire). EFSA J 2023; 21:e08332. [PMID: 37928944 PMCID: PMC10623241 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.8332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The contamination of water used in post-harvest handling and processing operations of fresh and frozen fruit, vegetables and herbs (ffFVHs) is a global concern. The most relevant microbial hazards associated with this water are: Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., human pathogenic Escherichia coli and enteric viruses, which have been linked to multiple outbreaks associated with ffFVHs in the European Union (EU). Contamination (i.e. the accumulation of microbiological hazards) of the process water during post-harvest handling and processing operations is affected by several factors including: the type and contamination of the FVHs being processed, duration of the operation and transfer of microorganisms from the product to the water and vice versa, etc. For food business operators (FBOp), it is important to maintain the microbiological quality of the process water to assure the safety of ffFVHs. Good manufacturing practices (GMP) and good hygienic practices (GHP) related to a water management plan and the implementation of a water management system are critical to maintain the microbiological quality of the process water. Identified hygienic practices include technical maintenance of infrastructure, training of staff and cooling of post-harvest process water. Intervention strategies (e.g. use of water disinfection treatments and water replenishment) have been suggested to maintain the microbiological quality of process water. Chlorine-based disinfectants and peroxyacetic acid have been reported as common water disinfection treatments. However, given current practices in the EU, evidence of their efficacy under industrial conditions is only available for chlorine-based disinfectants. The use of water disinfection treatments must be undertaken following an appropriate water management strategy including validation, operational monitoring and verification. During operational monitoring, real-time information on process parameters related to the process and product, as well as the water and water disinfection treatment(s) are necessary. More specific guidance for FBOp on the validation, operational monitoring and verification is needed.
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11
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Chandran S, Baker CA, Hamilton AN, Dhulappanavar GR, Jones SL, Gibson KE. Aqueous Ozone Efficacy for Inactivation of Foodborne Pathogens on Vegetables Used in Raw Meat-Based Diets for Companion Animals. J Food Prot 2023; 86:100175. [PMID: 37802235 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfp.2023.100175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study evaluates the efficacy of a batch wash ozone sanitation system (BWOSS) and spray wash ozone sanitation system (SWOSS) against Listeria monocytogenes (two strains) and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica (three serovars) inoculated on the surface of carrots, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash, commonly used in raw meat-based diets (RMBDs) marketed for companion animals such as dogs and cats. Produce either remained at room temperature for 2 h or were frozen at -20°C and then tempered overnight at 4°C to mimic the preprocessing steps of a raw pet food processing operation ('freeze-temper') prior to ozone treatment. Two ozone concentrations (0 and 5 ppm) were applied for either 20 s or 60 s for BWOSS and 20 s for SWOSS. Based on an ANOVA, BWOSS data showed no significant difference (P > 0.05) in microbial reduction between 0 and 5 ppm ozone concentration across all treatment durations for each produce type. BWOSS resulted in mean microbial reductions of up to 1.56 log CFU/mL depending on the treatment time and produce type. SWOSS data were analyzed using a generalized linear model with Quasipoisson errors. Freeze-tempered produce treated with SWOSS had a higher bacterial log reduction at 5 ppm ozone compared to 0 ppm ozone (P = 0.0013) whereas room temperature produce treated with SWOSS did not show any significant difference in microbial reduction between ozone concentrations. The potential to mitigate microbial cross-contamination was also investigated during SWOSS treatment. The results indicate that 5 ppm ozone decreased pathogens in the rinsate and proximal surfaces by 0.63-1.66 log CFU/mL greater than no ozone depending on the pathogen and sample. Overall, data from this study indicate that SWOSS would be more effective compared to BWOSS in reducing the microbial load present on the surface of root tubers and squash subjected to freezing and thawing and has the potential to mitigate cross-contamination within RMDB manufacturing environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahaana Chandran
- Department of Food Science, Center for Food Safety, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA
| | - Christopher A Baker
- Department of Food Science, Center for Food Safety, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA
| | - Allyson N Hamilton
- Department of Food Science, Center for Food Safety, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA
| | - Gayatri R Dhulappanavar
- Department of Food Science, Center for Food Safety, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA
| | - Sarah L Jones
- Department of Food Science, Center for Food Safety, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA
| | - Kristen E Gibson
- Department of Food Science, Center for Food Safety, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA.
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Xie Y, Nitin N, Harris LJ. Transfer of Enterococcus faecium and Salmonella enterica during simulated postharvest handling of yellow onions (Allium cepa). Food Microbiol 2023; 115:104340. [PMID: 37567641 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2023.104340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial transfer during postharvest handling of fresh produce provides a mechanism for spreading pathogens, but risk factors in dry environments are poorly understood. The aim of the study was to investigate factors influencing bacterial transfer between yellow onions (Allium cepa) and polyurethane (PU) or stainless steel (SS) under dry conditions. Rifampin-resistant Enterococcus faecium NRRL B-2354 or a five-strain cocktail of Salmonella was inoculated onto onion skin or PU surfaces at high or moderate levels using peptone, onion extract, or soil water as inoculum carriers. Transfer from inoculated to uninoculated surfaces was conducted using a texture analyzer to control force, time, and number of contacts. Transfer rates (ratio of recipient surface to donor surface populations) of E. faecium (4-5%) were significantly higher than those of Salmonella (0.5-0.6%) at the high (7 log CFU/cm2) but not moderate (5 log CFU/cm2) inoculum levels. Significantly higher populations of E. faecium transferred from onion to PU than from PU to onion. The transfer rates of E. faecium were impacted by inoculum carrier (61% [onion extract], 1.6% [peptone], and 0.31% [soil]) but not by inoculation level or recipient surface (PU versus SS). Bacterial transfer during dry onion handling is significantly dependent on bacterial species, inoculation levels, inoculum carrier, and transfer direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucen Xie
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616-8598, USA.
| | - Nitin Nitin
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616-8598, USA; Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| | - Linda J Harris
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616-8598, USA; Western Center for Food Safety, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95618, USA.
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13
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Msimango T, Duvenage S, Du Plessis EM, Korsten L. Microbiological quality assessment of fresh produce: Potential health risk to children and urgent need for improved food safety in school feeding schemes. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:5501-5511. [PMID: 37701226 PMCID: PMC10494634 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
About 388 million school-going children worldwide benefit from school feeding schemes, which make use of fresh produce to prepare meals. Fresh produce including leafy greens and other vegetables were served at 37% and 31% of school feeding programs, respectively, in Africa. This study aimed at assessing the microbiological quality of fresh produce grown onsite or supplied to South African schools that are part of the national school feeding programs that benefit over 9 million school-going children. Coliforms, Escherichia coli, Enterobacteriaceae, and Staphylococcus aureus were enumerated from fresh produce (n = 321) samples. The occurrence of E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae was determined. Presumptive pathogens were tested for antimicrobial resistance. E. coli was further tested for diarrheagenic virulence genes. Enterobacteriaceae on 62.5% of fresh produce samples (200/321) exceeded previous microbiological guidelines for ready-to-eat food, while 86% (276/321 samples) and 31.6% (101/321 samples) exceeded coliform and E. coli criteria, respectively. A total of 76 Enterobacteriaceae were isolated from fresh produce including E. coli (n = 43), Enterobacter spp. (n = 15), and Klebsiella spp. (n = 18). Extended-spectrum β-lactamase production was confirmed in 11 E. coli, 13 Enterobacter spp., and 17 Klebsiella spp. isolates. No diarrheagenic virulence genes were detected in E. coli isolates. However, multidrug resistance (MDR) was found in 60.5% (26/43) of the E. coli isolates, while all (100%; n = 41) of the confirmed ESBL and AmpC Enterobacteriaceae showed MDR. Our study indicates the reality of the potential health risk that contaminated fresh produce may pose to school-going children, especially with the growing food safety challenges and antimicrobial resistance crisis globally. This also shows that improved food safety approaches to prevent foodborne illness and the spread of foodborne pathogens through the food served by school feeding schemes are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thabang Msimango
- Department of Plant and Soil SciencesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation‐National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food SecurityPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - Stacey Duvenage
- Natural Resources Institute, Faculty of Engineering and ScienceUniversity of GreenwichLondonUK
| | - Erika M. Du Plessis
- Department of Plant and Soil SciencesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation‐National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food SecurityPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - Lise Korsten
- Department of Plant and Soil SciencesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation‐National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food SecurityPretoriaSouth Africa
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Rothwell JG, Hong J, Morrison SJ, Vyas HKN, Xia B, Mai-Prochnow A, McConchie R, Phan-Thien KY, Cullen PJ, Carter DA. An Effective Sanitizer for Fresh Produce Production: In Situ Plasma-Activated Water Treatment Inactivates Pathogenic Bacteria and Maintains the Quality of Cucurbit Fruit. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0003423. [PMID: 37428084 PMCID: PMC10434273 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00034-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The effect of plasma-activated water (PAW) generated with a dielectric barrier discharge diffusor (DBDD) system on microbial load and organoleptic quality of cucamelons was investigated and compared to the established sanitizer, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Pathogenic serotypes of Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes were inoculated onto the surface of cucamelons (6.5 log CFU g-1) and into the wash water (6 log CFU mL-1). PAW treatment involved 2 min in situ with water activated at 1,500 Hz and 120 V and air as the feed gas; NaOCl treatment was a wash with 100 ppm total chlorine; control treatment was a wash with tap water. PAW treatment produced a 3-log CFU g-1 reduction of pathogens on the cucamelon surface without negatively impacting quality or shelf life. NaOCl treatment reduced the pathogenic bacteria on the cucamelon surface by 3 to 4 log CFU g-1; however, this treatment also reduced fruit shelf life and quality. Both systems reduced 6-log CFU mL-1 pathogens in the wash water to below detectable limits. The critical role of superoxide anion radical (·O2-) in the antimicrobial power of DBDD-PAW was demonstrated through a Tiron scavenger assay, and chemistry modeling confirmed that ·O2- generation readily occurs in DBDD-PAW generated with the employed settings. Modeling of the physical forces produced during plasma treatment showed that bacteria likely experience strong local electric fields and polarization. We hypothesize that these physical effects synergize with reactive chemical species to produce the acute antimicrobial activity seen with the in situ PAW system. IMPORTANCE Plasma-activated water (PAW) is an emerging sanitizer in the fresh food industry, where food safety must be achieved without a thermal kill step. Here, we demonstrate PAW generated in situ to be a competitive sanitizer technology, providing a significant reduction of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms while maintaining the quality and shelf life of the produce item. Our experimental results are supported by modeling of the plasma chemistry and applied physical forces, which show that the system can generate highly reactive ·O2- and strong electric fields that combine to produce potent antimicrobial power. In situ PAW has promise in industrial applications as it requires only low power (12 W), tap water, and air. Moreover, it does not produce toxic by-products or hazardous effluent waste, making it a sustainable solution for fresh food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna G. Rothwell
- ARC Training Centre for Food Safety in the Fresh Produce Industry, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jungmi Hong
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stuart J. Morrison
- Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Heema Kumari Nilesh Vyas
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Institute of Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Binbin Xia
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anne Mai-Prochnow
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robyn McConchie
- ARC Training Centre for Food Safety in the Fresh Produce Industry, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kim-Yen Phan-Thien
- ARC Training Centre for Food Safety in the Fresh Produce Industry, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Patrick J. Cullen
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dee A. Carter
- ARC Training Centre for Food Safety in the Fresh Produce Industry, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Institute of Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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15
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Tanpichai S, Pumpuang L, Srimarut Y, Woraprayote W, Malila Y. Development of chitin nanofiber coatings for prolonging shelf life and inhibiting bacterial growth on fresh cucumbers. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13195. [PMID: 37580357 PMCID: PMC10425451 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39739-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The widespread usage of petroleum-based polymers as single-use packaging has had harmful effects on the environment. Herein, we developed sustainable chitin nanofiber (ChNF) coatings that prolong the shelf life of fresh cucumbers and delay the growth of pathogenic bacteria on their surfaces. ChNFs with varying degrees of acetylation were successfully prepared via deacetylation using NaOH with treatment times of 0-480 min and defibrillated using mechanical blending. With longer deacetylation reaction times, more acetamido groups (-NHCOCH3) in chitin molecules were converted to amino groups (-NH2), which imparted antibacterial properties to the ChNFs. The ChNF morphologies were affected by deacetylation reaction time. ChNFs deacetylated for 240 min had an average width of 9.0 nm and lengths of up to several μm, whereas rod-like structured ChNFs with a mean width of 7.3 nm and an average length of 222.3 nm were obtained with the reaction time of 480 min. Furthermore, we demonstrated a standalone ChNF coating to extend the shelf life of cucumbers. In comparison to the rod-like structured ChNFs, the 120 and 240-min deacetylated ChNFs exhibited a fibril-like structure, which considerably retarded the moisture loss of cucumbers and the growth rate of bacteria on their outer surfaces during storage. Cucumbers coated with these 120 and 240-min deacetylated ChNFs demonstrated a lower weight loss rate of ⁓ 3.9% day-1 compared to the uncoated cucumbers, which exhibited a weight loss rate of 4.6% day-1. This protective effect provided by these renewable ChNFs holds promising potential to reduce food waste and the use of petroleum-based packaging materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supachok Tanpichai
- Learning Institute, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, 10140, Thailand.
- Cellulose and Bio-Based Nanomaterials Research Group, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, 10140, Thailand.
| | - Laphaslada Pumpuang
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Yanee Srimarut
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Weerapong Woraprayote
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Yuwares Malila
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
- International Joint Research Center On Food Security (IJC-FOODSEC), Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
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16
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El Safadi D, Osman M, Hanna A, Hajar I, Kassem II, Khalife S, Dabboussi F, Hamze M. Parasitic Contamination of Fresh Leafy Green Vegetables Sold in Northern Lebanon. Pathogens 2023; 12:1014. [PMID: 37623974 PMCID: PMC10459145 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Contaminated, raw or undercooked vegetables can transmit parasitic infections. Here, we investigated parasitic contamination of leafy green vegetables sold in local markets in the Tripoli district, Lebanon, during two consecutive autumn seasons (2020-2021). The study involved the microscopic examination of 300 samples of five different types of vegetables (60 samples per type) and used standardized qualitative parasitological techniques for some protozoa and helminths. The results showed that 16.7% (95% interval for p: 12.6%, 21.4%) (50/300) of the vegetable samples were contaminated with at least one parasite. The most frequently detected parasite was Blastocystis spp. (8.7%; 26/300); this was followed in frequency by Ascaris spp. (3.7%; 11/300). Among the different vegetable types, lettuce (23.3%; 14/60) was the most contaminated, while arugula was the least contaminated (11.7%; 7/60). The statistical analysis did not reveal any significant association between the prevalence of parasitic contamination and the investigated risk factors, which included collection date, vegetable type, market storage status, and wetness of vegetables at the time of purchase (p > 0.05). The high prevalence of parasitic contamination also suggested the potential presence of other microbial pathogens. These findings are important because leafy green vegetables are preferentially and heavily consumed raw in Lebanon. Thus, implementing effective measures that target the farm-to-fork continuum is recommended in order to reduce the spread of intestinal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dima El Safadi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L7 8XZ, UK;
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Marwan Osman
- Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Angel Hanna
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Iman Hajar
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Issmat I. Kassem
- Center for Food Safety, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, Griffin, GA 30223, USA;
| | - Sara Khalife
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Fouad Dabboussi
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
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Imran A, Shehzadi U, Islam F, Afzaal M, Ali R, Ali YA, Chauhan A, Biswas S, Khurshid S, Usman I, Hussain G, Zahra SM, Shah MA, Rasool A. Bacteriophages and food safety: An updated overview. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:3621-3630. [PMID: 37457180 PMCID: PMC10345663 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite significant advances in pathogen survival and food cleaning measures, foodborne diseases continue to be the main reason for hospitalization or other fatality globally. Conventional antibacterial techniques including pasteurization, pressurized preparation, radioactivity, as well as synthetic antiseptics could indeed decrease bacterial activity in nutrition to variable levels, despite their serious downsides like an elevated upfront outlay, the possibility of accessing malfunctions due to one corrosiveness, as well as an adverse effect upon those the foodstuffs' organoleptic properties and maybe their nutritional significance. Greatest significantly, these cleansing methods eliminate all contaminants, including numerous (often beneficial) bacteria found naturally in food. A huge amount of scientific publication that discussed the application of virus bioremediation to treat a multitude of pathogenic bacteria in meals spanning between prepared raw food to fresh fruit and vegetables although since initial idea through using retroviruses on meals. Furthermore, the quantity of widely viable bacteriophage-containing medicines licensed for use in health and safety purposes has continuously expanded. Bacteriophage bio-control, a leafy and ordinary technique that employs lytic bacteriophages extracted from the atmosphere to selectively target pathogenic bacteria and remove meaningfully decrease their stages meals, is one potential remedy that solves some of these difficulties. It has been suggested that applying bacteriophages to food is a unique method for avoiding bacterial development in vegetables. Because of their selectivity, security, stability, and use, bacteriophages are desirable. Phages have been utilized in post-harvest activities, either alone or in combination with antimicrobial drugs, since they are effective, strain-specific, informal to split and manipulate. In this review to ensure food safety, it may be viable to use retroviruses as a spontaneous treatment in the thread pollution of fresh picked fruits and vegetables, dairy, and convenience foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Imran
- Department of Food Sciences Government College University Faisalabad Pakistan
| | - Umber Shehzadi
- Department of Food Sciences Government College University Faisalabad Pakistan
| | - Fakhar Islam
- Department of Food Sciences Government College University Faisalabad Pakistan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition NUR International University Lahore Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Afzaal
- Department of Food Sciences Government College University Faisalabad Pakistan
| | - Rehman Ali
- Department of Food Sciences Government College University Faisalabad Pakistan
| | - Yuosra Amer Ali
- Department of Food Sciences, College of Agriculture and Forestry University of Mosul Mosul Iraq
| | - Anamika Chauhan
- Department of Home Science Chaman Lal Mahavidyalaya Landhora Haridwar India
- Sri Dev Suman University Tehri India
| | - Sunanda Biswas
- Department of Food & Nutrition Acharya Prafulla Chandra College Kolkata India
| | - Sadaf Khurshid
- Department of Food Sciences Government College University Faisalabad Pakistan
| | - Ifrah Usman
- Department of Food Sciences Government College University Faisalabad Pakistan
| | - Ghulam Hussain
- Neurochemicalbiology and Genetics Laboratory (NGL), Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences Government College University Faisalabad Pakistan
| | - Syeda Mahvish Zahra
- Department of Environmental Design, Health and Nutritional Sciences Allama Iqbal Open University Islamabad Pakistan
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition University of Sargodha Sargodha Pakistan
| | - Mohd Asif Shah
- Adjunct Faculty University Center for Research & Development, Chandigarh University Mohali India
| | - Adil Rasool
- Department of Management Bakhtar University Kabul Afghanistan
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Murali AP, Trząskowska M, Trafialek J. Microorganisms in Organic Food-Issues to Be Addressed. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1557. [PMID: 37375059 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The review aimed to analyse the latest data on microorganisms present in organic food, both beneficial and unwanted. In conclusion, organic food's microbial quality is generally similar to that of conventionally produced food. However, some studies suggest that organic food may contain fewer pathogens, such as antibiotic-resistant strains, due to the absence of antibiotic use in organic farming practices. However, there is little discussion and data regarding the importance of some methods used in organic farming and the risk of food pathogens presence. Concerning data gaps, it is necessary to plan and perform detailed studies of the microbiological safety of organic food, including foodborne viruses and parasites and factors related to this method of cultivation and specific processing requirements. Such knowledge is essential for more effective management of the safety of this food. The use of beneficial bacteria in organic food production has not yet been widely addressed in the scientific literature. This is particularly desirable due to the properties of the separately researched probiotics and the organic food matrix. The microbiological quality of organic food and its potential impact on human health is worth further research to confirm its safety and to assess the beneficial properties resulting from the addition of probiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna P Murali
- Department of Food Gastronomy and Food Hygiene, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS), Nowoursynowska 159C, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Trząskowska
- Department of Food Gastronomy and Food Hygiene, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS), Nowoursynowska 159C, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Trafialek
- Department of Food Gastronomy and Food Hygiene, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS), Nowoursynowska 159C, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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19
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Ghorbani Tajani A, Bisha B. Effect of Food Matrix and Treatment Time on the Effectiveness of Grape Seed Extract as an Antilisterial Treatment in Fresh Produce. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11041029. [PMID: 37110451 PMCID: PMC10142837 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11041029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Listeriosis outbreaks were associated with contaminated fruits and vegetables, including cantaloupe, apples, and celery. Grape seed extract (GSE) is a natural antimicrobial with potential for reducing Listeria monocytogenes contamination in food. This study assessed the effectiveness of GSE to reduce L. monocytogenes on fresh produce and the impact of food matrices on its antilisterial activity. GSE showed MIC values of 30-35 μg/mL against four Listeria strains used in this study. A total of 100 g portions of cantaloupe, apples, and celery were inoculated with L. monocytogenes and treated with 100-1000 μg/mL of GSE for 5 or 15 min. Results were analyzed using Rstudio and a Tukey's test. Treated produce had significantly lower L. monocytogenes counts than the control samples (p-value < 0.05). The inhibition was significantly higher on apples and lowest on cantaloupe. Moreover, a 15 min treatment was found to be more effective than a 5 min treatment in reducing L. monocytogenes on all produce types. The reduction in L. monocytogenes levels varied between 0.61 and 2.5 log10 CFU reduction, depending on the treatment concentration, duration, and produce matrix. These findings suggest that GSE is an effective antilisterial treatment for fresh produce, with varying levels of effectiveness depending on the food matrix and treatment time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bledar Bisha
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
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20
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Deng W, Gibson KE. Microgreen Variety Impacts Leaf Surface Persistence of a Human Norovirus Surrogate. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2023; 15:82-88. [PMID: 36151506 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-022-09536-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Human norovirus (HuNoV) is a pathogenic agent that is frequently associated with foodborne disease outbreaks linked to fresh produce. Within microgreen production systems, understanding of virus transmission routes and persistence is limited. To investigate virus persistence on microgreen leaf surfaces, this study mimicked virus contaminations caused during microgreen handling by farm workers or during overhead irrigation with contaminated water. Specifically, approximately 5 log PFU of Tulane virus (TV)-a HuNoV surrogate-was inoculated on sunflower (SF) and pea shoot (PS) microgreen leaves at 7-day age. The virus reduction on SF was significantly higher than PS (p < 0.05). On day 10, total TV reduction for SF and PS were 3.70 ± 0.10 and 2.52 ± 0.30 log PFU/plant, respectively. Under the environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) observation, the leaf surfaces of SF were visually smoother than PS, while their specific effect on virus persistence were not further characterized. Overall, this study revealed that TV persistence on microgreen leaves was plant variety dependent. In addition, this study provided a preliminary estimation on the risk of HuNoV contamination in a microgreen production system which will aim the future development of prevention and control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Deng
- Department of Food Science, Center for Food Safety, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, 1371 West Altheimer Dr., Fayetteville, AR, 72704, USA
| | - Kristen E Gibson
- Department of Food Science, Center for Food Safety, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, 1371 West Altheimer Dr., Fayetteville, AR, 72704, USA.
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21
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Yin HB, Chen CH, Gu G, Nou X, Patel J. Pre-harvest biocontrol of Listeria and Escherichia coli O157 on lettuce and spinach by lactic acid bacteria. Int J Food Microbiol 2023; 387:110051. [PMID: 36516726 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2022.110051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent outbreaks linked to contaminated leafy greens underline the need for identifying effective natural approaches to improve produce safety at pre-harvest level. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have been evaluated as biocontrol agents in food products. In this study, the efficacy of a cocktail of LAB including Lactococcus lactis, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus johnsonii, and Lactobacillus acidophilus as pre-harvest biocontrol agents against Listeria and Escherichia coli O157 on lettuce and spinach was investigated. Bacterial pathogens L. monocytogenes and E. coli O157:H7 and the non-pathogenic surrogates L. innocua and E. coli O157:H12 were used to spray-inoculate cultivars of lettuce and spinach grown in growth chamber and in field, respectively. Inoculated plants were spray-treated with water or a cocktail of LAB. On day 0, 3, and 5 post-inoculation, four samples from each group were collected and bacterial populations were determined by serial dilution and spiral plating on selective agars. LAB treatment exhibited an immediate antimicrobial efficacy against L. monocytogenes and E. coli O157:H7 on "Green Star" lettuce by ~2 and ~ 1 log reductions under growth chamber conditions, respectively (P < 0.05). The effect of LAB against E. coli O157:H7 on "New Red Fire" lettuce remained effective during the 5-day period in growth chamber (P < 0.05). Treatment of LAB delivered an effective bactericidal effect against E. coli O157:H12 immediately after application on the field-grown lettuce plants (P < 0.05). Approximately 1 log L. innocua reduction was observed on "Matador" and "Palco" spinach on day 5 (P < 0.05). Results of this study support that LAB could potentially be applied as biocontrol agents for controlling Listeria and E. coli O157 contamination on leafy greens at the pre-harvest level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Bai Yin
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Chi-Hung Chen
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Ganyu Gu
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Xiangwu Nou
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Jitendra Patel
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD, USA.
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22
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Roobab U, Madni GM, Ranjha MMAN, Khan AW, Selim S, Almuhayawi MS, Samy M, Zeng XA, Aadil RM. Applications of water activated by ozone, electrolysis, or gas plasma for microbial decontamination of raw and processed meat. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2023.1007967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
A raw or processed meat product can be a breeding ground for spoilage bacteria (Enterobacteriaceae, Lactobacillus spp., Pseudomonas spp., etc.). Failure of decontamination results in food quality loss and foodborne illnesses caused by pathogens such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes. Often, meat processors decontaminate the carcass using cheap chemicals or artificial antimicrobial agents not listed on the ingredient list, which is discouraged by health-conscious consumers. Foods with clean labels became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led consumers to choose healthier ingredients. Novel methods of controlling or improving meat safety are constantly being discovered. This review focuses on novel means of electrochemically activate water that is being investigated as a sanitizing agent for carcasses and processing area decontamination during production or at the end. Water can be activated by using non-thermal techniques such as ozonation, electrolysis, and cold plasma technologies. Recent studies showed that these activated liquids are powerful tools for reducing microbial activity in raw and processed meat. For instance, plasma-activated water can be used to enhance microbiological safety and avoid the negative effects of direct gaseous plasma on the organoleptic aspects of food products. In addition, electrolyzed water technology offers hurdle enhancement by combining with non-thermal strategies that have great potential. Ozonation is another way of activating water which provides a very convenient way to control microbiological safety and finds several recent applications as aqueous ozone for meat decontamination. These solutions are highly reactive and convenient for non-conventional applications in the meat industry related to food safety because of their antimicrobial or antiviral impact. The present review highlights the efficacy of activated-water decontamination of raw and processed meat via non-thermal solutions.
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Healy SR, Morgan ER, Prada JM, Betson M. From fox to fork? Toxocara contamination of spinach grown in the south of England, UK. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:49. [PMID: 36732821 PMCID: PMC9896772 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05674-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati are intestinal parasites of dogs, cats and foxes, with infected animals shedding eggs of the parasite in their faeces. If humans accidentally ingest embryonated Toxocara spp. eggs from the environment, severe clinical consequences, including blindness and brain damage, can occur. Previous work has demonstrated the presence of Toxocara spp. eggs on vegetable produce grown in the UK, but only in small-scale community gardens. The aim of this study was to determine whether Toxocara spp. eggs are also present on vegetables grown on commercial farms in the UK, which supply produce to a greater number of people. METHODS A total of 120 samples (300 g each) of spinach (Spinacia oleracea) were collected across four farms in the south of England, UK. The samples were processed using a sieving approach followed by multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. RESULTS Overall, 23.0% of samples were positive for T. canis (28/120; 95% confidence interval 16.7-31.7%) and 1.7% for T. cati (2/120; 95% confidence interval 0.5-5.9%). There was a statistically significant difference in the number of positive samples between farms (P = 0.0064). To our knowledge, this is the first report of the isolation of Toxocara spp. from vegetables grown on commercial farms in the UK. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study highlight the requirement for the thorough washing of vegetables prior to their consumption, especially those such as spinach which may be eaten without first peeling or cooking, and effective farm biosecurity measures to minimise access to farmland by definitive host species of Toxocara spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara R. Healy
- grid.5475.30000 0004 0407 4824School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford, GU2 7AL Surrey UK
| | - Eric R. Morgan
- grid.4777.30000 0004 0374 7521Institute for Global Food Security, Queen’s University, Biological Sciences Building, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL UK
| | - Joaquin M. Prada
- grid.5475.30000 0004 0407 4824School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford, GU2 7AL Surrey UK
| | - Martha Betson
- grid.5475.30000 0004 0407 4824School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford, GU2 7AL Surrey UK
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Kim Y, Ma L, Huang K, Nitin N. Bio-based antimicrobial compositions and sensing technologies to improve food safety. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2023; 79:102871. [PMID: 36621220 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Microbial contamination of food products is a significant challenge that impacts food safety and quality. This review focuses on bio-based technologies for enhancing the decontamination of raw foods during postharvest processing, preventing cross-contamination, and rapidly detecting microbial risks. The bio-based antimicrobial compositions include bio-based antimicrobial delivery systems and coatings. The antimicrobial delivery systems are developed using cell-based carriers, microbubbles, and lipid-based colloidal particles. The antimicrobial coatings are engineered by incorporating biopolymers with conventional antimicrobials or cell-based antimicrobial carriers. The bio-based sensing approaches focus on replacing antibodies with more stable and cost-effective bio-receptors, including antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophages, DNAzymes, and engineered liposomes. Together, these approaches can reduce microbial contamination risks and enhance the in-situ detection of microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonbin Kim
- Department of Food Science & Technology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Luyao Ma
- Department of Food Science & Technology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Kang Huang
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Nitin Nitin
- Department of Food Science & Technology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Department of Biological & Agricultural Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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25
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Ashrafudoulla M, Ulrich MSI, Toushik SH, Nahar S, Roy PK, Mizan FR, Park SH, Ha SD. Challenges and opportunities of non-conventional technologies concerning food safety. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/00439339.2023.2163044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Md. Ashrafudoulla
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-Si, Republic of Korea
| | - Mevo S. I. Ulrich
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-Si, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Shamsun Nahar
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-Si, Republic of Korea
| | - Pantu Kumar Roy
- Department of Seafood Science and Technology, Gyeongsang National University, Tongyeong, Republic of Korea
| | - Furkanur Rahaman Mizan
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-Si, Republic of Korea
| | - Si Hong Park
- Food Science and Technology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Sang-Do Ha
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-Si, Republic of Korea
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26
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Pathogenic parasites in vegetables in the Middle East and North Africa: Occurrence of Ascaris eggs and Giardia cysts, and epidemiological implications. Food Control 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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27
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Chathuranga Nabadawa Hewage S, Makawita A, Chandran S, Gibson KE, Fraser AM. Evaluating the Alignment and Quality of Microgreens Training Materials Available on the Internet: A Content Analysis. J Food Prot 2023; 86:100021. [PMID: 36916601 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfp.2022.100021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Interest in microgreens, young, edible seedlings of a variety of vegetables, spices, and herbs, is growing worldwide. A recent national survey of the U.S. microgreen industry reported 48% of 176 growers learned to grow microgreens by viewing websites and videos on the internet. However, it is unknown if the content related to growing microgreens is aligned with regulations and clearly presented. The aim of this research was to conduct a content analysis to determine alignment with the Food Safety and Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule (PSR)and the presentation quality of existing microgreen training materials available on the internet. Microgreen training materials were collected using two search engines - Google and YouTube. A deductive approach was used to inform the development of three coding manuals to evaluate the training materials meeting the eligibility criteria. One was used to determine the alignment of the content and was based on the PSR. The other two manuals were used to determine the presentation quality of Google and YouTube training materials according to CDC's Quality E-learning Checklist. A total of 223 training materials (86 Google and 137 YouTube), which fulfilled the inclusion criteria, were selected for the analysis. The results of the alignment with the PSR revealed that both sources minimally covered food safety principles with several areas minimally or not addressing specific information (e.g., water testing, worker training, environmental monitoring, and record keeping). In addition, some food safety information was unclear or presented conflicting information (e.g., requirement of washing microgreens, cleaning and sanitization methods, seed treatment methods, and waste management). The Google and YouTube quality scoring systems resulted in a mean quality score of 15.81 and 22 of a maximum score of 28, respectively. These findings indicate the quality and alignment with the PSR of microgreen training materials need to be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supun Chathuranga Nabadawa Hewage
- Clemson University, Department of Food, Nutrition, and Packaging Sciences, 223 Poole Agricultural Center, Box 340316, Clemson, SC 29634-0316, USA.
| | - Anuradi Makawita
- Clemson University, Department of Food, Nutrition, and Packaging Sciences, 223 Poole Agricultural Center, Box 340316, Clemson, SC 29634-0316, USA.
| | - Sahaana Chandran
- University of Arkansas, Department of Food Science, System Division of Agriculture, 2650 North Young Avenue, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA.
| | - Kristen E Gibson
- University of Arkansas, Department of Food Science, System Division of Agriculture, 2650 North Young Avenue, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA.
| | - Angela M Fraser
- Clemson University, Department of Food, Nutrition, and Packaging Sciences, 223 Poole Agricultural Center, Box 340316, Clemson, SC 29634-0316, USA.
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28
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Jagannathan BV, Dakoske M, Vijayakumar PP. Bacteriophage-mediated control of pre- and post-harvest produce quality and safety. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2022.113912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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29
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Mohammad ZH, Prado ID, Sirsat SA. Comparative microbial analyses of hydroponic versus in-soil grown Romaine lettuce obtained at retail. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11050. [PMID: 36281368 PMCID: PMC9587268 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The overarching goal of this study was to assess the microbiological profile of hydroponically grown Romaine lettuce and in-soil Romaine lettuce (organic and conventional). Thirty-six samples of hydroponic lettuce, seventy-two samples organic lettuce (thirty-six bagged lettuce and thirty-six non-bagged lettuce), and thirty-six conventionally grown lettuce was purchased from retail stores. A portion of each sample was analyzed for aerobic bacteria (APC), coliforms and E. coli, and yeasts and molds (YM). Another portion of each sample was enriched for Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus, and confirmed with RT-PCR. No statistical differences were found in the microbial profile (P > 0.05) between the different farming practices. The APC, coliforms, E. coli, and YM counts were similar across bagged samples. The results demonstrated that APC and E. coli were significantly higher (P<0.05) in organic non-bagged samples compared to other practices. Salmonella and L. monocytogenes were detected in some organically and conventionally grown lettuce samples but were only detected in 3 hydroponically grown lettuce samples. This study indicated that hydroponically grown lettuce obtained at retail may have food safety risks similar to organic and conventional systems. These findings highlight the need for food safety training and educational programs.
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30
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Low M, Scharff R, Tang J, Grasso-Kelley E, Feng Y. Food Handling Practices for Apple Drying in Home Kitchens in the United States: A Survey. J Food Prot 2022; 85:1418-1430. [PMID: 35723543 DOI: 10.4315/jfp-22-106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Fruit drying has traditionally received little food safety attention in spite of Salmonella outbreaks and recalls involving low-moisture foods. This study was conducted to assess the food safety implications during the home drying process, with dried apples as an example. A cohort of home apple dryers (n = 979) participated in an online survey through Qualtrics XM in May 2021. The results showed that participants' knowledge of safe food handling practices regarding dried fruit was low. On average, participants used only 8 of 18 identified food safety practices during apple drying. The survey revealed inadequate frequency of hand washing during apple preparation, potential points of cross-contamination from kitchen tools, lack of hurdle technology without a pretreatment step, failure to incorporate a thermal kill step during drying, and a lack of objective measurements to ensure that target parameters are attained. Participants mainly pretreated apples for sensory improvement instead of microbial reduction. When presented with some benefits of pretreatment, participants who did not pretreat their apples considered doing so to kill bacteria. The use of safe food handling practices differed within demographic groups. Participants 18 to 39 years old (mean = 7.47; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 7.26, 7.67) and 40 to 59 years old (mean = 7.43; 95% CI = 7.16, 7.70) reported using fewer safe practices than did those >60 years old (mean = 8.49; 95% CI = 8.22, 8.75), and participants who identified as male (mean = 7.38; 95% CI = 7.16, 7.60) reported using fewer safe practices than did those identifying as female (mean = 7.92; 95% CI = 7.74, 8.11). The findings of this study provide food handling data to support the development of more accurate food safety risk assessment models and to guide the development of food safety education for consumers who dehydrate produce in the home. HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Low
- Department of Food Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907
| | - Robert Scharff
- Department of Human Sciences, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210
| | - Juming Tang
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164
| | | | - Yaohua Feng
- Department of Food Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907
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31
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Possas A, Pérez-Rodríguez F. New insights into Cross-contamination of Fresh-Produce. Curr Opin Food Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2022.100954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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32
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Chahar M, Gollop R, Kroupitski Y, Shemesh M, Sela Saldinger S. Control of Salmonella in mung bean sprouts by antagonistic spore-forming bacilli. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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33
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Yu X, Zou Y, Zhang Z, Wei T, Ye Z, Yuk HG, Zheng Q. Recent advances in antimicrobial applications of curcumin-mediated photodynamic inactivation in foods. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.108986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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34
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Liu X, Le Bourvellec C, Yu J, Zhao L, Wang K, Tao Y, Renard CM, Hu Z. Trends and challenges on fruit and vegetable processing: Insights into sustainable, traceable, precise, healthy, intelligent, personalized and local innovative food products. Trends Food Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2022.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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35
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Wang Q, Pal RK, Yen HW, Naik SP, Orzeszko MK, Mazzeo A, Salvi D. Cold plasma from flexible and conformable paper-based electrodes for fresh produce sanitation: Evaluation of microbial inactivation and quality changes. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.108915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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36
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Cold plasma-activated hydrogen peroxide aerosols inactivate Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria innocua on smooth surfaces and stem scars of tomatoes: Modeling effects of hydrogen peroxide concentration, treatment time and dwell time. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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37
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38
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Wang H, Hasani M, Wu F, Warriner K. Pre-oxidation of spent lettuce wash water by continuous Advanced Oxidation Process to reduce chlorine demand and cross-contamination of pathogens during post-harvest washing. Food Microbiol 2022; 103:103937. [PMID: 35082063 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2021.103937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
A continuous Photo-Fenton Advanced-Oxidation-Process (AOP) for reducing the chlorine-demand of spent lettuce wash water was developed based on the generation of hydroxyl-radicals from the UV-C degradation of hydrogen peroxide in the presence of ferric-catalyst. It was found that an interaction between UV-C and hydrogen peroxide or ferric-catalyst concentration was associated with high hydroxyl-radical generation as determined from the oxidation of methylene blue. The optimal AOP treatment was identified as 320 mJ/cm2 UV-C dose, 9.6 mg/L H2O2, and 9 mg/L ferric-catalyst. When the treatment was applied to simulated lettuce spent wash water (6.6 g romaine lettuce per liter of distilled water containing 100 mg bentonite; pH 6.9) the chlorine demand was reduced from 150 ppm to 130 ppm. The chlorination of AOP treated water did not result in a greater log reduction of pathogens (Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella) on lettuce but did reduce cross-contamination between batches during washing. The chlorinated byproducts formed in AOP treated water exhibited higher antimicrobial activity compared to untreated controls. Although the treatment was successful in reducing cross-contamination of lettuce batches the cytotoxicity of disinfection byproducts requires to be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongran Wang
- Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mahdiyeh Hasani
- Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fan Wu
- Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Keith Warriner
- Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
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39
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Kim YE, Min SC. Consecutive treatments of cold plasma and intense pulsed light for microbial decontamination of fresh cabbage slices in plastic containers. Int J Food Microbiol 2022; 369:109626. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2022.109626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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40
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Microbial Contamination and Occurrence of Aflatoxins in Processed Baobab Products in Kenya. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE 2022; 2022:2577222. [PMID: 35252436 PMCID: PMC8896946 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2577222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Baobab fruit demand has been on the rise in the recent past, and in an attempt to match the demand, farmers and middlemen are forced to harvest immature fruits which are not fully dried. To ensure an acceptable moisture content, baobab fruits are subjected to solar drying, which is a slow process and often carried out in open and unhygienic conditions raising safety concerns. This study was conducted to investigate the microbial and aflatoxin contamination levels in ready-to-eat baobab products from selected formal and informal processors in specific counties of Kenya. Selected processed baobab products were sampled randomly from formal and informal processors and analyzed for the total aerobic count, Enterobacteriaceae, yeast and molds, ergosterol, aflatoxins, moisture, and water activity. The moisture and water activity of baobab pulp and candies from formal processors ranged between 7.73% and 15.06% and 0.532 and 0.740 compared to those from informal processors which ranged from 10.50% to 23.47% and 0.532 to 0.751, respectively. In this study, baobab pulp from formal processors had significantly (
, 0.0006) lower Enterobacteriaceae and yeast and molds loads (
and
log 10 CFU/g, respectively) than pulp from informal processors (
and
log 10 CFU/g, respectively). Similarly, the Enterobacteriaceae counts of candies from formal processors (nondetectable) were considerably lower (
) than those from informal processors (
log 10 CFU/g). The ergosterol content in these baobab product samples ranged between 0.46 and 1.92 mg/100 g while the aflatoxin content ranged between 3.93 and
, respectively. Fungal and aflatoxin contamination was detected in 25% and 5% of pulp from formal and informal processors, respectively, and in 5% of candies from informal processors. Microbial contamination in processed baobab products shows an unhygienic processing environment while the fungal and aflatoxin contamination may indicate poor postharvest handling, transport, and storage conditions of baobab fruits along the baobab value chain.
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Reduction of Bacterial Enteric Pathogens and Hygiene Indicator Bacteria on Tomato Skin Surfaces by a Polymeric Nanoparticle-Loaded Plant-Derived Antimicrobial. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10020448. [PMID: 35208902 PMCID: PMC8877882 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10020448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study determined Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium survival on tomato skins as a function of sanitization treatment, under three differing contamination and sanitization scenarios. Sanitizing treatments consisted of the plant-derived antimicrobial (PDA) geraniol (0.5 wt.%) emulsified in the polymeric surfactant Pluronic F-127 (GNP), 0.5 wt.% unencapsulated geraniol (UG), 200 mg/L hypochlorous acid at pH 7.0 (HOCl), and a sterile distilled water wash (CON). Experimental contamination and sanitization scenarios tested were: (1) pathogen inoculation preceded by treatment; (2) the pathogen was inoculated onto samples twice with a sanitizing treatment applied in between inoculations; and (3) pathogen inoculation followed by sanitizing treatment. Reductions in counts of surviving pathogens were dependent on the sanitizing treatment, the storage period, or the interaction of these independent/main effects. GNP treatment yielded the greatest reductions in pathogen counts on tomato skins; pathogen survivor counts following GNP treatment were consistently statistically lower than those achieved by HOCl or UG treatments (p < 0.05). GNP treatment provided greatest pathogen reduction under differing conditions of pre- and/or post-harvest cross-contamination, and reduced hygiene-indicating microbes the most of all treatments on non-inoculated samples. Encapsulated geraniol can reduce the risk of pathogen transmission on tomato fruit, reducing food safety hazard risks for tomato consumers.
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Estimating the Risk of Acute Gastrointestinal Disease Attributed to E. coli O157:H7 in Irrigation Water and Agricultural Soil: A Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14031878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The occurrence of E. coli O157:H7 in the agricultural environment poses a serious threat to public health. The primary aim was to estimate the probability of illness caused by E. coli O157:H7 in irrigation water and agricultural soil niches. Methods: The Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment was used and the risks were characterized using the Monte Carlo simulation with 10,000 iterations. Results: The mean levels of E. coli O157:H7 in the irrigation water and agricultural soil samples was 1.328 × 103 CFU/100 mL (Range: 0.00 to 13.000 × 103 CFU/100 mL) and 2.482 × 103 CFU/g (Range: 0.167 × 103 to 16.333 × 103 CFU/g), respectively. The risk of infection in humans exposed to this water and soil was 100%. In addition, a high risk of acute diarrheal disease was estimated at 25.0 × 10−2 for humans exposed to contaminated water and/or soil. Summary: These results exceeded the WHO diarrheal disease risk standard of 1.0 × 10−3. These findings demonstrated a high probability of acute gastrointestinal disease among humans exposed to E. coli O157:H7 in irrigation water and agricultural soil samples collected from the study sites representing a huge public health threat.
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Brunn A, Kadri-Alabi Z, Moodley A, Guardabassi L, Taylor P, Mateus A, Waage J. Characteristics and Global Occurrence of Human Pathogens Harboring Antimicrobial Resistance in Food Crops: A Scoping Review. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2022.824714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundThe role of the crop environment as a conduit for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through soil, water, and plants has received less attention than other sectors. Food crops may provide a link between the agro-environmental reservoir of AMR and acquisition by humans, adding to existing food safety hazards associated with microbial contamination of food crops.ObjectivesThe objectives of this review were: (1) to use a systematic methodology to characterize AMR in food crop value chains globally, and (2) to identify knowledge gaps in understanding exposure risks to humans.MethodsFour bibliographic databases were searched using synonyms of AMR in food crop value chains. Following two-stage screening, phenotypic results were extracted and categorized into primary and secondary combinations of acquired resistance in microbes of concern based on established prioritization. Occurrence of these pathogen-AMR phenotype combinations were summarized by sample group, value chain stage, and world region. Sub-analyses on antimicrobial resistance genes (ARG) focused on extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and tetracycline resistance genes.ResultsScreening of 4,455 citations yielded 196 studies originating from 49 countries, predominantly in Asia (89 studies) and Africa (38). Observations of pathogen-phenotype combinations of interest were reported in a subset of 133 studies (68%). Primary combinations, which include resistance to antimicrobials of critical importance to human medicine varied from 3% (carbapenem resistance) to 13% (fluoroquinolones), whereas secondary combinations, which include resistance to antimicrobials also used in agriculture ranged from 14% (aminoglycoside resistance) to 20% (aminopenicillins). Salad crops, vegetables, and culinary herbs were the most sampled crops with almost twice as many studies testing post-harvest samples. Sub-analysis of ARG found similar patterns corresponding to phenotypic results.DiscussionThese results suggest that acquired AMR in opportunistic and obligate human pathogens is disseminated throughout food crop value chains in multiple world regions. However, few longitudinal studies exist and substantial heterogeneity in sampling methods currently limit quantification of exposure risks to consumers. This review highlights the need to include agriculturally-derived AMR in monitoring food safety risks from plant-based foods, and the challenges facing its surveillance.
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BERRIOS-RODRIGUEZ A, OLANYA OM, UKUKU DO, NIEMIRA BA, MUKHOPADHYAY S, ORELLANA LE. Gamma radiation effects on the survival and reduction of Listeria monocytogenes on carrot and tomato. FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/fst.17622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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45
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Guan J, Lacombe A, Rane B, Tang J, Sablani S, Wu VCH. A Review: Gaseous Interventions for Listeria monocytogenes Control in Fresh Apple Cold Storage. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:782934. [PMID: 34956148 PMCID: PMC8696023 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.782934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) causes an estimated 1600 foodborne illnesses and 260 deaths annually in the U.S. These outbreaks are a major concern for the apple industry since fresh produce cannot be treated with thermal technologies for pathogen control before human consumption. Recent caramel apple outbreaks indicate that the current non-thermal sanitizing protocol may not be sufficient for pathogen decontamination. Federal regulations provide guidance to apple processors on sanitizer residue limits, organic production, and good manufacturing practices (GMPs). However, optimal methods to control L. monocytogenes on fresh apples still need to be determined. This review discusses L. monocytogenes outbreaks associated with caramel apples and the pathogen’s persistence in the environment. In addition, this review identifies and analyzes possible sources of contaminant for apples during cold storage and packing. Gaseous interventions are evaluated for their feasibility for L. monocytogenes decontamination on apples. For example, apple cold storage, which requires waterless interventions, may benefit from gaseous antimicrobials like chlorine dioxide (ClO2) and ozone (O3). In order to reduce the contamination risk during cold storage, significant research is still needed to develop effective methods to reduce microbial loads on fresh apples. This requires commercial-scale validation of gaseous interventions and intervention integration to the current existing apple cold storage. Additionally, the impact of the interventions on final apple quality should be taken into consideration. Therefore, this review intends to provide the apple industry suggestions to minimize the contamination risk of L. monocytogenes during cold storage and hence prevent outbreaks and reduce economic losses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiewen Guan
- Produce Safety and Microbiology Research Unit, Western Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, CA, United States.,Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Alison Lacombe
- Produce Safety and Microbiology Research Unit, Western Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, CA, United States
| | - Bhargavi Rane
- Produce Safety and Microbiology Research Unit, Western Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, CA, United States.,Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Juming Tang
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Shyam Sablani
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Vivian C H Wu
- Produce Safety and Microbiology Research Unit, Western Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, CA, United States
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46
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George AS, Brandl MT. Plant Bioactive Compounds as an Intrinsic and Sustainable Tool to Enhance the Microbial Safety of Crops. Microorganisms 2021; 9:2485. [PMID: 34946087 PMCID: PMC8704493 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9122485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Outbreaks of produce-associated foodborne illness continue to pose a threat to human health worldwide. New approaches are necessary to improve produce safety. Plant innate immunity has potential as a host-based strategy for the deactivation of enteric pathogens. In response to various biotic and abiotic threats, plants mount defense responses that are governed by signaling pathways. Once activated, these result in the release of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in addition to secondary metabolites that aim at tempering microbial infection and pest attack. These phytochemicals have been investigated as alternatives to chemical sanitization, as many are effective antimicrobial compounds in vitro. Their antagonistic activity toward enteric pathogens may also provide an intrinsic hurdle to their viability and multiplication in planta. Plants can detect and mount basal defenses against enteric pathogens. Evidence supports the role of plant bioactive compounds in the physiology of Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes as well as their fitness on plants. Here, we review the current state of knowledge of the effect of phytochemicals on enteric pathogens and their colonization of plants. Further understanding of the interplay between foodborne pathogens and the chemical environment on/in host plants may have lasting impacts on crop management for enhanced microbial safety through translational applications in plant breeding, editing technologies, and defense priming.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria T. Brandl
- Produce Safety and Microbiology Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Albany, CA 94710, USA;
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47
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Whitney BM, McCLURE M, Hassan R, Pomeroy M, Seelman SL, Singleton LN, Blessington T, Hardy C, Blankenship J, Pereira E, Davidson CN, Luo Y, Pettengill J, Curry P, McCONNELL T, Gieraltowski L, Schwensohn C, Basler C, Fritz K, McKENNA C, Nieves K, Oliveira J, Sandoval AL, Crosby A, Williams D, Crocker K, Thomas D, Fulton T, Muetter L, Li L, Omoregie E, Holloman K, Brennan C, Thomas N, Barnes A, Viazis S. A Series of Papaya-Associated Salmonella Illness Outbreak Investigations in 2017 and 2019: A Focus on Traceback, Laboratory, and Collaborative Efforts. J Food Prot 2021; 84:2002-2019. [PMID: 34265065 DOI: 10.4315/jfp-21-082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT In 2017 and 2019, five outbreaks of infections from multiple strains of Salmonella linked to the consumption of whole, fresh Maradol papayas were reported in the United States, resulting in 325 ill persons. Traceback, laboratory, and epidemiologic evidence indicated papayas as the likely vehicle for each of these outbreaks and identified the source of papayas. State and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) laboratories recovered Salmonella from papaya samples from various points of distribution, including at import entry, and conducted serotyping, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, and phylogenetic analyses of whole genome sequencing data. Federal and state partners led traceback investigations to determine the source of papayas. Four different suppliers of papayas were linked by traceback and laboratory results to five separate outbreaks of Salmonella infections associated with papayas. In 2017, multiple states tested papaya samples collected at retail, and Maryland and Virginia investigators recovered strains of Salmonella associated with one outbreak. FDA collected 183 papaya samples in 2017, and 11 samples yielded 62 isolates of Salmonella. Eleven serotypes of Salmonella were recovered from FDA papaya samples, and nine serotypes were closely related genetically by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and whole genome sequencing to clinical isolates of four outbreaks, including the outbreak associated with positive state sample results. Four farms in Mexico were identified, and their names were released to the general public, retailers, and foreign authorities. In 2019, FDA collected 119 papaya samples, three of which yielded Salmonella; none yielded the 2019 outbreak strain. Investigators determined that papayas of interest had been sourced from a single farm in Campeche, Mexico, through traceback. This information was used to protect public health through public guidance, recalls, and import alerts and helped FDA collaborate with Mexican regulatory partners to enhance the food safety requirements for papayas imported from Mexico. HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke M Whitney
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Monica McCLURE
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Rashida Hassan
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30329
| | - Mary Pomeroy
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30329
| | - Sharon L Seelman
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Lauren N Singleton
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Tyann Blessington
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Cerisé Hardy
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Joseph Blankenship
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Evelyn Pereira
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Chelsea N Davidson
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Yan Luo
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - James Pettengill
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Phillip Curry
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Terri McCONNELL
- Office of Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland 20993
| | | | - Colin Schwensohn
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30329
| | - Colin Basler
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30329
| | - Kevin Fritz
- Office of Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland 20993
| | - Crystal McKENNA
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - Kenneth Nieves
- Office of the Commissioner, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland 20993
| | - Janete Oliveira
- Office of the Commissioner, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland 20993
| | - Ana Lilia Sandoval
- Office of the Commissioner, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland 20993
| | - Alvin Crosby
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
| | - D'Ann Williams
- State of Maryland Rapid Response Team, Maryland Department of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Kia Crocker
- State of Maryland Rapid Response Team, Maryland Department of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Deepam Thomas
- New Jersey Department of Health, Trenton, New Jersey 08625
| | - Tara Fulton
- New Jersey Department of Health, Trenton, New Jersey 08625
| | - Loel Muetter
- New Jersey Department of Health, Trenton, New Jersey 08625
| | - Lan Li
- Bureau of Communicable Disease, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, New York 11101
| | - Enoma Omoregie
- Public Health Laboratory, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, New York 11101
| | | | - Christy Brennan
- Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Richmond, Virginia 23219
| | - Nikeya Thomas
- Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Richmond, Virginia 23219
| | - Amber Barnes
- California Department of Public Health, Sacramento, California 95899, USA
| | - Stelios Viazis
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740
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Montero L, Irazabal J, Cardenas P, Graham JP, Trueba G. Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Producing- Escherichia coli Isolated From Irrigation Waters and Produce in Ecuador. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:709418. [PMID: 34671324 PMCID: PMC8521160 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.709418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In cities across the globe, the majority of wastewater – that includes drug resistant and pathogenic bacteria among other contaminants – is released into streams untreated. This water is often subsequently used for irrigation of pastures and produce. This use of wastewater-contaminated streams allows antibiotic-resistant bacteria to potentially cycle back to humans through agricultural products. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli isolated from produce and irrigation water across 17 provinces of Ecuador. A total of 117 vegetable samples, 119 fruit samples, and 38 irrigation water samples were analyzed. Results showed that 11% of the samples were positive for E. coli including 11 irrigation water samples (29%), and samples of 13 vegetables (11%), and 11 fruits (9%). Among the 165 E. coli isolates cultured, 96 (58%) had the ESBL phenotype, and 58% of ESBL producing E. coli came from irrigation water samples, 11% from vegetables, and 30% from fruits. The blaCTX–M–55, blaCTX–M 65, and blaCTX–M 15 genes were the most frequently found gene associated with the ESBL phenotype and coincided with the blaCTX–M alleles associated with human infections in Ecuador. Three isolates had the mcr-1 gene which is responsible for colistin resistance. This report provides evidence of the potential role of irrigation water in the growing antimicrobial resistance crisis in Ecuador.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Montero
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Jorge Irazabal
- Agrocalidad, Agencia de Regulación y Control Fito y Zoosanitario, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Paul Cardenas
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Jay P Graham
- Environmental Health Sciences Division, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Gabriel Trueba
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
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Assessment of toxic effect of
Centella asiatica
extract and its application as natural preservative in fresh‐cut mango, pear and cabbage. J FOOD PROCESS PRES 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.15824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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50
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Mao L, Mhaske P, Zing X, Kasapis S, Majzoobi M, Farahnaky A. Cold plasma: Microbial inactivation and effects on quality attributes of fresh and minimally processed fruits and Ready-To-Eat vegetables. Trends Food Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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