Behaviour of Listeria monocytogenes and Aeromonas spp. on fresh-cut produce packaged under equilibrium-modified atmosphere.

Author(s) : JACXSENS L., DEVLIEGHERE F., FALCATO P., et al.

Type of article: Article

Summary

Storage experiments were conducted to follow the behaviour of pathogens on fresh-cut vegetables (trimmed Brussels sprouts, grated carrots, shredded iceberg lettuce, and shredded chicory endives) packaged under an equilibrium-modified atmosphere (EMA) (2 to 3% O2, 2 to 3% CO2, and 94 to 96% N2) and stored at 7 °C. As a comparison, fresh-cut vegetables were also packaged in a perforated high-barrier film (air conditions) and stored at 7 °C. The shelf life of the vegetables in the two kinds of packages was determined by evaluating the microbiological quality and the sensorial quality. The shelf life of the vegetables stored under an EMA was extended by 50% or more, compared with the air-stored vegetables. In a second storage experiment, the four fresh-cut vegetables were inoculated with a cocktail of psychrotrophic pathogens (Listeria monocytogenes, Aeromonas caviae (HG4) and A. bestiarum (HG2) before packaging under an EMA and air at 7 °C. The inoculated pathogens were more influenced by the type of vegetable than by the type of atmosphere. Aeromonas spp. had a higher growth rate than L. monocytogenes on the shredded chicory endives and shredded iceberg lettuce at 7 °C.

Details

  • Original title: Behaviour of Listeria monocytogenes and Aeromonas spp. on fresh-cut produce packaged under equilibrium-modified atmosphere.
  • Record ID : 2001-0325
  • Languages: English
  • Source: Journal of Food Protection - vol. 62 - n. 10
  • Publication date: 1999/10
  • Document available for consultation in the library of the IIR headquarters only.

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