Aug 21, 2019

Foodborne pathogen sheltered by harmless bacteria that support biofilm formation

Pathogenic bacteria that stubbornly lurk in some apple-packing facilities may be sheltered and protected by harmless bacteria that are known for their ability to form biofilms, according to Penn State researchers, who suggest the discovery could lead to development of alternative foodborne-pathogen-control strategies.

Researcher Xiaoqing Tan, a recently graduated master’s degree student in food science and a member of the Microbiome Center, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, tests bacteria samples from apple-processing plants in the laboratory. IMAGE: PENN STATE