Characterisation of Pseudomonas lundensis CP-P-5 as a potential antagonist of foodborne pathogenic bacteria

Abstract

Previously isolated Pseudomonas lundensis CP-P-5 had antagonistic activity against Salmonella Hartford, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Escherichia coli. In this study, determination of its antagonistic mechanism and potential field of application in food industry was aimed. Using cellophane-test and microcultures of the test strain’s cell-free supernatant mixed with the pathogens, our results showed that cells of P. lundensis CP-P-5 and its concentrated cell-free supernatants were effective against the foodborne bacteria, and the supernatants contained more than one compound responsible for inhibitory activity. Searching for the antagonistic compound, NaOH, protease, and heat treatments were done to the supernatants, and proteolytic activity and siderophore production were also tested using the antagonistic strain. Our results support the potential applicability of P. lundensis CP-P-5 as a bioprotective agent against foodborne pathogens in food processing environments.