Glycerol utilization by Brochothrix thermosphacta

Growth of the meat spoilage organism, Brochothrix thermosphacta, was supported by either glucose or glycerol with acetoin production. Similar yields of bacteria were obtained at growth-limiting concentrations of either substrate. The rate of uptake of each substrate was similar but glycerol supported higher rates of respiration than glucose. These findings are discussed in relation to metabolism of glycerol and the use of glycerol for meat storage.