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Updated: Jul 5, 2025
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Bacteriophage Effectiveness for Biocontrol of Foodborne Pathogens Evaluated via High-Throughput Settings
Published on: August 19, 2021
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Bacteriophages: a potential game changer in food processing industry
Vandana Chaudhary1, Priyanka Kajla2, Deepika Lather3
1Department of Dairy Technology, College of Dairy Science and Technology, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India.
Critical Reviews in Biotechnology
|January 16, 2024
Summary
Bacteriophages (phages) offer a promising alternative to traditional methods for controlling harmful bacteria in food. This review explores their potential applications in food preservation and safety, highlighting their role in reducing foodborne illnesses.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Foodborne illnesses remain a global concern despite existing safety measures.
- Pathogenic bacteria in food necessitate innovative control strategies.
- Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that infect bacteria and are being explored as natural biocontrol agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the applications of bacteriophages in the food industry.
- To highlight phages as biocontrol agents for food preservation and safety.
- To discuss recent advancements, future prospects, regulatory status, and safety concerns of phage-based strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications on bacteriophages in food safety.
- Analysis of phage applications in food processing and preservation.
- Examination of regulatory and safety aspects of phage use.
Main Results:
- Bacteriophages show significant potential as natural agents to control pathogenic bacteria in food.
- Phage-based strategies can enhance food quality and extend shelf life.
- Emerging phage products are being developed to target new foodborne pathogens.
Conclusions:
- Phages represent a viable and effective strategy for improving food safety and security.
- Further research and development are needed to fully realize the potential of phage-based interventions.
- Addressing regulatory and safety considerations is crucial for widespread adoption of phages in the food industry.
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