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Growth of Pseudomonas fluorescens in modified atmosphere packaged tofu
Author(s) -
Stoops J.,
Maes P.,
Claes J.,
Van Campenhout L.
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
letters in applied microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.698
H-Index - 110
eISSN - 1472-765X
pISSN - 0266-8254
DOI - 10.1111/j.1472-765x.2011.03196.x
Subject(s) - pseudomonas fluorescens , modified atmosphere , pseudomonadaceae , atmosphere (unit) , food science , pseudomonadales , biology , pseudomonas , botany , chemistry , bacteria , shelf life , geography , meteorology , genetics
Aims: The objective was to study the growth of Pseudomonas in a food product (tofu) where it typically occurs as a spoilage organism, and when this product is stored under modified atmosphere. Methods and Results: A Pseudomonas strain was isolated from the endogenous microflora of tofu. Tofu was inoculated with the strain, packaged in different gas conditions (air, 100% N 2 , 30% CO 2 /70% N 2 or 100% CO 2 ) and stored under refrigerated conditions. Microbial loads and the headspace gas composition were monitored during storage. Conclusions: The strain was capable of growing in atmospheres containing no or limited amounts of oxygen and increased amounts of carbon dioxide. Even when 100% CO 2 was used, growth could not be inhibited completely. Significance and Impact of Study: In contrast to the general characteristics of the genus Pseudomonas (strictly aerobic, highly sensitive to CO 2 ), it should not be expected in the food industry that removing oxygen from the food package and increasing the carbon dioxide content, combined with cold storage, will easily avoid spoilage by Pseudomonas species. Guarantee of hygienic standards and combination of strategies with other microbial growth inhibiting measures should be implemented.