Phage Biocontrol Applications in Food Production and Processing

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Food Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Bacteriophages (phages) are ubiquitous microorganisms with growing interest in practical applications.
• Phage biocontrol is gaining momentum for food safety, with increasing regulatory approvals.
• Applications include pre-harvest, post-harvest, and food contact surface decontamination.

Purpose of the Study:

• This review focuses on the post-harvest application of bacteriophage biocontrol.
• It also briefly describes commercially available phage preparations.
• The review discusses challenges and future prospects of phage biocontrol in food safety.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of bacteriophage applications in food safety.
• Focus on post-harvest interventions.
• Analysis of commercially available phage products and regulatory landscape.

Main Results:

• Post-harvest application of phages is the most common current use of phage biocontrol.
• Several commercial phage preparations are available for food safety.
• Regulatory approvals are increasing, indicating growing acceptance.

Conclusions:

• Bacteriophage biocontrol, especially post-harvest, is a promising approach for enhancing food safety.
• Commercialization and regulatory progress are evident.
• Overcoming existing challenges is key to wider adoption.