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Is Bacillus cytotoxicus from edible insects a threat?
Hooriyeh Mohammadpour1, Adiba Akram2, Martina Marcolin1
1Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Pd, Italy.
International Journal of Food Microbiology
|December 14, 2024
Summary
Bacillus cytotoxicus, an emerging foodborne pathogen, shows high heat tolerance and proteolytic activity in edible insects. Genomic analysis reveals distinct profiles in insect-derived strains, highlighting adaptation to food niches and potential food safety risks.
Area of Science:
- Food Microbiology
- Genomics
- Food Safety
Background:
- Bacillus cytotoxicus is an emerging foodborne pathogen with limited research on strains from sources other than vegetables.
- Edible insects represent a novel food source where B. cytotoxicus has not been extensively studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genomic and phenotypic characteristics of B. cytotoxicus isolated from edible insects.
- To compare these strains with those from other food sources to understand genetic links, virulence profiles (VP), and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing and phenotypic analysis of 20 B. cytotoxicus strains from edible insects.
- Comparative genomic analysis with 44 publicly available B. cytotoxicus genomes.
Main Results:
- Insect-derived B. cytotoxicus strains exhibit significant thermotolerance (growth up to 60°C) and proteolytic activity.
- Genomic analysis revealed distinct VP and AMR profiles in insect-associated strains, suggesting adaptation to this food niche.
- Identified links between isolates and potential trade routes, indicating strain persistence and spread.
Conclusions:
- B. cytotoxicus strains from edible insects possess unique adaptations, differing from vegetable-associated strains.
- Thermotolerance of these spore-forming bacteria necessitates careful assessment and process calibration for food safety.
- Understanding strain diversity and adaptation is crucial for managing the emerging risk of B. cytotoxicus in the food supply.
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