Staphylococcus aureus is a growing concern for the food handling industry. A growing number of S. aureus strains are becoming antimicrobial resistant, such as the well-known methicillin resistant MRSA. A 2012 study tested 442 samples from different food contact surfaces in the dairy, meat, and seafood industries. The study concluded that biofilm growth on food processing surfaces remained a persistent and growing danger in the food handling industry. The sample method used in the study is similar to Sure-BioChem’s practice of using sterile sponges moistened with a neutralizing broth. The results concluded that S. aureus coexisted with a variety of pathogenic food bacteria and other food spoilage microorganisms in biofilms.
In the study, common disinfectants used on food processing surfaces and equipment proved ineffective against these biofilms as the films adhered to surfaces and provided neighboring bacteria a way to communicate and respond to their surroundings. Frequently, when a biofilm grows too large, parts will break off to spread and adhere to other area making surfaces actually the best reservoirs for the multispecies biofilms.
The issue with S. aureus is not the bacteria itself, but the enterotoxins some strains produce. These substances are dangerous to the gastrointestinal tract, and infection can result in vomiting, or diarrhea. S. aureus enterotoxins are incredibly stable at high temperatures and the resulting food poisoning they cause is classified as Staphylococcal food poisoning. Denaturing the toxin is difficult, thus even successful bacterial removal does not guarantee the eradication of these formidable toxins.
Sure-BioChem Labs tests for S. aureus among other commonly pathogenic bacteria. S. aureus is internationally recognized as a multi-drug resistant bacterium. Prevention of the bacteria is key to avoiding the issues that follow its residence in food processing environments. SBL’s experienced personnel can teach current and upcoming businesses the most effective Good Manufacturing Practices to prevent and erase the presence of these multi-species biofilms. The 2012 study also proved that current industry hygiene practices did not completely remove pathogenic and other unwanted bacteria. The food industry is a reservoir for these microbiota, with S. aureus possibly enhancing their colonization and persistence. To know how to respond to these intruders, it is important to monitor manufacturing surfaces. Gauging efficiency of current practices, devising new ones, keeping a trend analysis, and cleanroom training for personnel are all ways Sure-BioChem can help control any harmful microorganisms threatening the welfare of your business.
http://aem.asm.org/content/78/24/8547.full
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3260550/
/
Interested in Working with
Sure-BioChem Laboratories
Sure-BioChem Laboratories offers top-notch analytical testing for various industries. Our advanced lab and expert team ensure reliable, quality results. We're committed to excellence, helping clients meet high standards in environmental, food, and pharmaceutical testing.
Headquarters:
1000 Atlantic Avenue
Camden, NJ 08104
PHONE: 888-398-7247
Main Menu