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Abstract:
Mixed cultures of viable spores of fungi of the Aspergillaceae were determined rapidly by gas-liquid chromatography of the methanol released from pectin by the enzyme pectinesterase. Results obtained in 19 h were comparable with plate counts taking 48 h. Attempts to count spoilage years using this method were not successful.
Insights
Gas-liquid chromatography rapidly determines viable fungal spores from Aspergillaceae in 19 hours, offering a faster alternative to traditional methods. This technique measures methanol released from pectin by pectinesterase, though it was unsuccessful for counting spoilage fungi over extended periods.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Food Science
Background:
- Accurate enumeration of viable fungal spores is crucial for quality control in various industries.
- Traditional methods like plate counts are time-consuming, delaying critical decision-making.
- Aspergillaceae fungi are common contaminants with implications for spoilage and health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a rapid method for determining viable spores of Aspergillaceae.
- To compare the speed and accuracy of the new method against conventional plate counts.
- To assess the applicability of the method for detecting spoilage fungi over time.
Main Methods:
- Utilized gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) to quantify methanol.
- Methanol was released from pectin by the enzyme pectinesterase, indicating viable fungal spores.
- Compared GLC results with standard 48-hour plate counts.
Main Results:
- Achieved comparable results to plate counts within 19 hours.
- Demonstrated a significant reduction in analysis time.
- The method was not successful for quantifying spoilage fungi over extended durations ('years').
Conclusions:
- Gas-liquid chromatography offers a rapid and reliable method for enumerating viable Aspergillaceae spores.
- This technique provides a substantial time-saving advantage over traditional microbiological methods.
- Further research is needed to adapt this method for long-term spoilage assessment.