Foodborne illness is a major concern for the food industry and regulatory agencies around the world. The most common cause of foodborne illness, or food poisoning, is consuming spoiled foods or products contaminated by pathogenic microorganisms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), foodborne illness is a costly public health problem that, while preventable, … Continue reading Extracts from cinnamon and pomegranates show antimicrobial activities against food-poisoning bacteria
Bacteriocin-producing bacteria present in commercial foodstuffs
In this study, researchers at Bannari Amman Institute of Technology in India investigated the prevalence of bacteriocin-producing, food spoilage- and bovine mastitis-causing bacteria in commercial foodstuff. Their findings were published in the International Journal of Green Pharmacy. A total of 389 commercial food samples were selected for the study, including meat products, fish products, milk and dairy products, … Continue reading Bacteriocin-producing bacteria present in commercial foodstuffs
Can essential oils prolong the shelf life of bread?
Essential oils are commonly used for aromatherapy and pain relief, but due to their wealth of active components, they can also be used for other things. Studies reveal that essential oils are also potent food preservatives. Researchers from Ghent University in Belgium further explored their potential, particularly in the preservation of bread from fungal spoilage. Their review, which … Continue reading Can essential oils prolong the shelf life of bread?
Essential oil of bald cypress can prevent food spoilage
Researchers from Egypt have a good reason to be excited about the essential oil of bald cypress (Taxodium distichum). They say that the powerful antimicrobial activity of the oil makes it the perfect solution to the problem of food spoilage. When food becomes spoiled, it is no longer fit for human consumption. It must be thrown out before … Continue reading Essential oil of bald cypress can prevent food spoilage
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 