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The Use of Natural Methods to Control Foodborne Biofilms
Michelle Marie Esposito1,2,3, Sara Turku1,3
1Department of Biology, College of Staten Island, City University of New York, 2800 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, New York, NY 10314, USA.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 21, 2023
Summary
This review explores natural methods to combat resilient foodborne biofilms, crucial for food safety. Innovative strategies like bacteriophages and plant extracts offer promising alternatives to chemical antimicrobials.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Food Science
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Biofilms are microbial communities resistant to conventional treatments.
- Food processing environments are prone to biofilm contamination.
- Chemical antimicrobials pose risks to human health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review natural methods for controlling foodborne biofilms.
- To highlight innovative and safe sanitization strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of natural antimicrobial agents.
- Analysis of various control mechanisms including bacteriophages, phytochemicals, and physical methods.
Main Results:
- Natural methods show potential against resilient biofilms.
- Diverse agents like bacteriocins, plant extracts, and essential oils are effective.
- Physical methods like ultrasound and photocatalysis offer novel control.
Conclusions:
- Natural interventions are viable alternatives for foodborne biofilm control.
- Further research into these methods can enhance food safety.
- Sustainable and safe food processing relies on natural sanitization.
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