Inhibition of germination, outgrowth, and vegetative growth of clostridium botulinum 67B by spice oils

Abstract

The oils of clove, thyme, black pepper, pimenta, origanum, garlic, onion, and cinnamon were tested for their activity on germination, outgrowth, and vegetative growth of Clostridium botulinum 67B in broth media. Garlic, onion, cinnamon, thyme, origanum, and black pepper oils at a concentration of 100 ppm prevented germination of C. botulinum 67B spores. Clove and pimenta oils at a concentration of 150 ppm prevented germination. The effect of spice oils on spore germination was reversible. The oils of black pepper and clove had a greater inhibitory effect on vegetative growth than the other oils. None of the oils had a significant effect on outgrowth.