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Bacteria in food packaging paper and board
O M Väisänen1, J Mentu, M S Salkinoja-Salonen
1University of Helsinki, Department of General Microbiology, Finland.
The Journal of Applied Bacteriology
|August 1, 1991
Summary
Spore-forming bacteria, primarily Bacillus species, dominate food packaging paper. The main source identified was recycled paper pulp, with Gram-negative bacteria being rare despite their presence in the stock.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Food Science
- Packaging Technology
Background:
- Food packaging materials can harbor bacteria, potentially impacting food safety.
- Understanding microbial contamination sources in paper and board production is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize aerobic bacteria present in food packaging paper and board.
- To determine the primary sources of bacterial contamination in the paper and board manufacturing process.
Main Methods:
- Bacterial isolation and identification from paper and board samples.
- Analysis of bacterial populations in relation to the manufacturing process, including the use of broke (recycled pulp).
Main Results:
- Predominance of aerobic spore-forming bacteria, mainly from the Bacillus genus (e.g., B. cereus group, B. polymyxa group).
- The broke (recycled paper pulp) was identified as the main source of spore-forming bacteria.
- Gram-negative bacteria were found to be rare in the final paper products, contrasting with their presence in the stock.
Conclusions:
- Bacillus species are the predominant bacteria in food packaging paper and board, originating mainly from recycled pulp.
- The prevalence of spore-forming bacteria highlights the importance of controlling contamination in the recycling process.
- A specific strain of Bacillus pumilus with unique spore characteristics may be relevant for aseptic packaging applications.