Development of antimicrobial films for microbiological control of packaged salad

Int J Food Microbiol. 2012 Jul 2;157(2):195-201. doi: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2012.05.002. Epub 2012 May 11.

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to characterize the antimicrobial efficiency of films consisting of PP/EVOH structures with oregano essential oil and citral. Both substances are known for their antimicrobial activity based on their interaction with the cell membrane. The films developed were used to pack minimally processed salads, combining modified atmosphere technology to extend shelf-life and active packaging technology to reduce possible microbiological risks. The antimicrobial activity of the films against the pathogenic microorganisms Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes and natural microflora was investigated "in vitro" and also on the food itself. The effect of release of the antimicrobial agent on the sensory characteristics of the salad was also studied. The results showed that antimicrobial activity reduced spoilage flora on the salad as well as inhibited the growth of pathogens in contaminated salads. This effect was greater against Gram-negative bacteria. Sensory studies showed that the package that was most effective and most accepted by customers was the one containing 5% oregano essential oil.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acyclic Monoterpenes
  • Anti-Infective Agents / chemistry
  • Anti-Infective Agents / pharmacology*
  • Escherichia coli / drug effects*
  • Escherichia coli / growth & development
  • Food Microbiology
  • Food Packaging / instrumentation*
  • Food Preservation / methods
  • Gram-Negative Bacteria / drug effects
  • Gram-Negative Bacteria / growth & development
  • Listeria monocytogenes / drug effects*
  • Listeria monocytogenes / growth & development
  • Monoterpenes
  • Oils, Volatile / chemistry
  • Oils, Volatile / pharmacology
  • Origanum / chemistry
  • Polypropylenes
  • Polyvinyls
  • Product Packaging
  • Salmonella enterica / drug effects*
  • Salmonella enterica / growth & development
  • Vegetables / microbiology*

Substances

  • Acyclic Monoterpenes
  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Monoterpenes
  • Oils, Volatile
  • Polypropylenes
  • Polyvinyls
  • ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer
  • citral