Using Candida oleophila as a biocontriol agens to prevent foodborne Escherichia coli O157 EHEC infections

Abstract

Escherichia coli O157:H7 (EHEC O157) is a serious pathogen causing haemorrhagic colitis. In this study, inactivation kinetics of inoculated EHEC O157 and response of EHEC O157 in apple wounds by different concentrations of C. oleophila was investigated. The results presented in this study indicated that EHEC O157 could survive and grow in wounded 'Fuji' apples and extensively proliferate. Water as a decontaminant was ineffective in reducing EHEC O157 in wounded apples. C. oleophila could be a viable method of controlling wound contaminated by this pathogen at room temperature. © 2012 Wang et al.