Research

This study evaluated the efficacy of antimycotics (sorbate, propionate and benzoate) to control the growth of L. monocytogenes in uncured turkey and cured bologna. The addition of 0.1% combined antimycotic agents effectively delayed or prevented growth of L. monocytogenes in cured processed meat.

The research determined that surface treatment using monocaprylin with acetic acid was effective in reducing Listeria monocytogenes on frankfurters. As an ingredient added to the product, monocaprylin was only moderately effective.

This research confirmed the role of super-shedders cattle in the transmission of E. coli O157:H7 to other cattle in a feedlot environment. Removing a super-shedder from a pen resulted in a decrease in shedding and/or pen prevalence; however the effect was not statistically significant. The addition of a super-shedder to a naïve pen did lead to a statistically significant increase in shedding and prevalence.

This study validated that controlled phase carbon dioxide was an effective method for reducing E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella and aerobic spoilage bacteria on beef trim and ground beef. This method had little or no impact on quality or sensory attributes.

This white paper determined the generally accepted time and temperature requirements for inactivation of the H5N1 virus in meat and poultry products. It reviewed non-thermal methods for inactivation of the H5N1 virus and their effectiveness and practicality in meat and poultry matrices. Finally, data gaps regarding inactivation of these viruses were identified.

This research evaluated the extent to which levulinate, a 5-carbon organic acid, inhibited growth of Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat meat products as compared to, and in combination with, lactate and diacetate.

This study evaluated the survival of Listeria monocytogenes in brine solutions containing chlorine dioxide.

This study determined the microbial risk associated with condensation and identify controllable risk factors associated with its formation. The risk factors of condensation in processing environments where both fresh and ready-to-eat products are produced was examined.

This study determined the impact of packaging methods, including low-oxygen modified atmosphere packaging with carbon monoxide, and temperature abuse on the pathogen loads in ground beef inoculated with E. coli O157 and Salmonella. It also evaluated the effect of packaging methods and temperature abuse on the spoilage characteristics and shelf life of ground beef.