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Emerging decontamination technologies have been attracted considerable attention to address the consumers' demand for high quality and safe food products. As one of the important foods in the human diet, cereals are usually stored for long periods, resulting in an increased risk of contamination by different hazards. Mycotoxins comprise one of the significant contaminants of cereals that lead to enormous economic losses to the industry and threats to human health. While prevention is the primary approach towards reducing human exposure to mycotoxins, decontamination methods have also been developed as complementary measures. However, some conventional methods (chemical treatments) do not fulfill industries' expectations due to limitations like safety, efficiency, and the destruction of food quality attributes. In this regard, novel techniques have been proposed to food to comply with the industry's demand and overcome conventional methods' limitations. Novel techniques have different efficiencies for removing or reducing mycotoxins depending on processing conditions, type of mycotoxin, and the food matrix. Therefore, this review provides an overview of novel mycotoxin decontamination technologies such as cold plasma, irradiation, and pulse light, which can be efficient for reducing mycotoxins with minimum adverse effects on the quality and nutritional properties of produce., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

This study aimed to evaluate the perception of Brazilian dairy processors (n = 31) concerning food defense. The results showed that respondents consider the implementation of control procedures related to facilities, products, materials, and individuals as important measures in food defense. The higher agreement rates (strongly agreed + slightly agreed) of the companies in relation to the perception of food defense were 84% for external security, followed by personnel security (82%), generalities (81%), and internal security (74%). Thus, protecting facilities and controlling the traffic flow were considered to be the most important actions under the participants' perspectives. Employee satisfaction and identification of end products and raw materials are also considered relevant in the food defense program. Although food defense is not a formal requirement in Brazilian law, the results show that there is adequate awareness of this topic by the Brazilian dairy companies., (Copyright © 2020 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The present work aimed to evaluate the frequency of seafood consumption by the Brazilian population, the safety practices during seafood handling and preservation as well as to evaluate the consumers' perception on the risks associated with these foods. A total of 962 respondents responded to a survey divided into three parts: demographic and socio-economic profiles, seafood consumption habits, safety practices, and risk perceptions regarding seafood. The survey revealed a low level of perception about seafood safety. The respondents (64-71%) demonstrated a lack of knowledge of the main pathogens associated with seafood disease outbreaks and presented difficulties in identifying consumption places that could result in higher microbiological risk. Besides, these respondents showed to be unaware of their responsibility towards seafood safety from purchasing through preparation. Respondents belonging to the generation of baby boomers, with the postgraduate level and females presented a better perception of microbiological risk and on the importance of safety practices. These respondents showed positive attitudes, such as knowledge of the proper thawing procedures of seafood, knowledge of the potential risks to get sick from the consumption of raw seafood, and were also able to recognize Vibrio and Listeria as seafood bacterial pathogens. The knowledge proves to be an adequate tool for perception and judgment of microbiological risk, making the consumer adopt safe practices. The instruction of seafood consumers about safe handling practices and perceptions is critical for the success of farm to fork preventive measures aiming to protect public health., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Unit operations modify material properties aiming to produce uniform and high-quality food products with greater acceptance by the increasingly demanding consumers or with longer shelf life and better possibilities of storage and transport. Microorganisms, including bacteria, molds, viruses, and parasites, may have different susceptibilities to unit operations employed during food processing. On-farm (cleaning, selection and classification, cooling, storage, and transport) and on-factory unit operations (heating, refrigeration/freezing, dehydration, modification of atmosphere, irradiation, and physical, chemical, and microbial-based operations) are commonly employed throughout food production chain. The intensity and combination of unit operations along with food composition, packaging, and storage conditions will influence on the dominance of specific microorganisms, which can be pathogenic or responsible for spoilage. Thus, in the context of food safety objective (FSO), the knowledge and the quantification of the effects caused by each step of processing can enable to control and ensure the quality and safety of manufactured products., (© 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The present study describes the implementation of a food safety system in a dairy processing plant located in the State of São Paulo, Brazil, and the challenges found during the process. In addition, microbiological indicators have been used to assess system's implementation performance. The steps involved in the implementation of a food safety system included a diagnosis of the prerequisites, implementation of the good manufacturing practices (GMPs), sanitation standard operating procedures (SSOPs), training of the food handlers, and hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP). In the initial diagnosis, conformity with 70.7% (n=106) of the items analyzed was observed. A total of 12 critical control points (CCPs) were identified: (1) reception of the raw milk, (2) storage of the raw milk, (3 and 4) reception of the ingredients and packaging, (5) milk pasteurization, (6 and 7) fermentation and cooling, (8) addition of ingredients, (9) filling, (10) storage of the finished product, (11) dispatching of the product, and (12) sanitization of the equipment. After implementation of the food safety system, a significant reduction in the yeast and mold count was observed (p<0.05). The main difficulties encountered for the implementation of food safety system were related to the implementation of actions established in the flow chart and to the need for constant training/adherence of the workers to the system. Despite this, the implementation of the food safety system was shown to be challenging, but feasible to be reached by small-scale food industries.

In this study, 20 Brazilian public schools have been assessed regarding good manufacturing practices and standard sanitation operating procedures implementation. We used a checklist comprised of 10 parts (facilities and installations, water supply, equipments and tools, pest control, waste management, personal hygiene, sanitation, storage, documentation, and training), making a total of 69 questions. The implementing modification cost to the found nonconformities was also determined so that it could work with technical data as a based decision-making prioritization. The average nonconformity percentage at schools concerning to prerequisite program was 36%, from which 66% of them own inadequate installations, 65% waste management, 44% regarding documentation, and 35% water supply and sanitation. The initial estimated cost for changing has been U.S.$24,438 and monthly investments of 1.55% on the currently needed invested values. This would result in U.S.$0.015 increase on each served meal cost over the investment replacement within a year. Thus, we have concluded that such modifications are economically feasible and will be considered on technical requirements when prerequisite program implementation priorities are established.

This review was the first to gather literature about the effect of emerging technologies on probiotic, prebiotic, and postbiotic products. Applying emerging technologies to probiotic products can increase probiotic survival and improve probiotic properties (cholesterol attachment, adhesion to Caco‐2 cells, increase angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities, and decrease systolic blood pressure). Furthermore, it can optimize the fermentation process, produce or maintain compounds of interest (bacteriocin, oligosaccharides, peptides, phenolic compounds, flavonoids), improve bioactivity (vitamin, aglycones, calcium), and sensory characteristics. Applying emerging technologies to prebiotic products did not result in prebiotic degradation. Still, it contributed to higher concentrations of bioactive compounds (citric and ascorbic acids, anthocyanin, polyphenols, flavonoids) and health properties (antioxidant activity and inhibition of ACE, α‐amylase, and α‐glucosidase). Emerging technologies may also be applied to obtain postbiotics with increased health effects. In this way, current studies suggest that emerging food processing technologies enhance the efficiency of probiotics and prebiotics in food. The information provided may help food industries to choose a more suitable technology to process their products and provide a basis for the most used process parameters. Furthermore, the current gaps are discussed. Emerging technologies may be used to process food products resulting in increased probiotic functionality, prebiotic stability, and higher concentrations of bioactive compounds. In addition, they can be used to obtain postbiotic products with improved health effects compared to the conventional heat treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional technologies for the inactivation of microorganisms in food products have their limitations, especially changes in quality attributes that have led to quality deterioration, low consumer acceptance, impact on the environment, and potential health hazards (carcinogens). Ultraviolet (UV) light is an emerging promising nonthermal technology employed for microbial inactivation in water, liquid, and solid food products to curtail the limitations above. This review provides an insight into UV light‐emitting diodes (UV‐LEDs)' potential as an alternative to the traditional UV lamps for microbial inactivation in liquid and solid media. Also, the mechanisms of inactivation of lone and combined UVA‐, UVB‐, and UVC‐LEDs were discussed. The strategies utilized to improve the efficacy between the UV‐LED treatments at various wavelengths were summarized. Combining different UV‐LEDs treatments at different wavelengths have a synergistic effect and suppression of microbial cell reactivation. The UV‐LED‐based advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) also have high germicidal action against numerous microorganisms and are efficient for the degradation of micropollutants. Among the UV‐LEDs discussed, UVC‐LED has the most antimicrobial effect with the most efficient micropollutants decomposition with regards to UV‐LED‐based AOPs. This review has provided vital information for future application, development, and customization of UV‐LED systems that can meet the food and water safety requirements and energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Raw materials such as cocoa, milk powder, sugar, and starch are widely used in the formulation of a wide variety of processed foods. The unit operations applied during their production vary according to their specific properties, technological advances and needs, which undoubtedly affect the microbial composition found in these raw materials. The microbial composition of these raw materials is known to consist mainly of spores of bacteria, which are known to withstand harsh food processing conditions. Scope and research This article aims to discuss data available on the diversity of spore forming bacteria in selected raw materials (cocoa, milk powder, sugar, starch). These raw materials are contaminated mainly by spore forming bacteria, which can germinate and be a concern in products made with these ingredients. In addition, this review presents data gaps and studies needed to establish the fate of spore forming bacteria throughout the production chain of specific raw materials. Key findings and conclusions The review of literature conducted in this study indicates that data on the effects of processing and diversity of spore forming bacteria in sugar and starch are much scarcer compared with cocoa and milk powders. Thus, cutting-edge approaches combining quantitative data with metagenomics could be used to improve our knowledge on the fate and diversity of spore forming bacteria in raw materials. These approaches can be employed to guide further developments that are aimed at enhancing food safety and controlling food spoilage caused by spore forming bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some species from Aspergillus section Nigri are morphologically very similar and altogether have been called A. niger aggregate. Although the species included in this group are morphologically very similar, they differ in their ability to produce mycotoxins and other metabolites and their taxonomical status has evolved continuously. Among them, A. niger and A. welwitschiae are ochratoxin A and fumonisin B 2 producers and their detection and/or identification is of crucial importance for food safety. The aim of this study was the development of a real-time PCR-based method for simultaneous discrimination of A. niger and A. welwitschiae from other species of the A. niger aggregate isolated from coffee beans. One primer pair and a hybridization probe specific for detection of A. niger and A. welwitschiae strains were designed based on the BenA gene sequences, and used in a Real-time PCR assay for the rapid discrimination between both these species from all others of the A. niger aggregate. The Real-time PCR assay was shown to be 100% efficient in discriminating the 73 isolates of A. niger / A. welwitschiae from the other A. niger aggregate species analyzed as a negative control. This result testifies to the use of this technique as a good tool in the rapid detection of these important toxigenic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modified mycotoxins are metabolites that normally remain undetected during the testing for parent mycotoxin. These modified forms of mycotoxins can be produced by fungi or generated as part of the defense mechanism of the infected plant. In some cases, they are formed during food processing. The various processing steps greatly affect mycotoxin levels present in the final product (free and modified), although the results are still controversial regarding the increase or reduction of these levels, being strongly related to the type of process and the composition of the food in question. Evidence exists that some modified mycotoxins can be converted into the parent mycotoxin during digestion in humans and animals, potentially leading to adverse health effects. Some of these formed compounds can be even more toxic, in case they have higher bioaccessibility and bioavailability than the parent mycotoxin. The modified mycotoxins can occur simultaneously with the free mycotoxin, and, in some cases, the concentration of modified mycotoxins may exceed the level of free mycotoxin in processed foods. Even though toxicological data are scarce, the possibility of modified mycotoxin conversion to its free form may result in a potential risk to human and animal health. This review aims to update information on the formation, detection, occurrence, and toxic effects caused by modified mycotoxin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some Escherichia coli serotypes are important human pathogens causing diarrhea or in some cases, life threatening diseases. E. coli is also a typical indicator microorganism, routinely used for assessing the microbiological quality of water especially to indicate fecal contamination. The soil is a sink and route of transmission to water and food resources and it is thus important to understand the survival of enterotoxigenic E. coli strains in soil. This study monitored the survival of six E. coli strains in sandy and loam soil. Furthermore, since biochar is a commonly used soil conditioner, the study investigated the impact of biochar amendment (15%) on the survival of the E. coli strains in (biochar-amended) sandy and loam soils. Addition of biochar affected the physicochemical properties of both soils, altering potassium levels, calcium, magnesium, sodium as well as levels of other metal ions. It increased the organic matter of loam soil from 44 g/dm3 to 52 g/dm3, and increased the pH of both sandy and loam soils. Survival and persistence of the E. coli strains generally varied according to soil type, with strains generally surviving better (P ≤ 0.05) in loam soil compared to in sandy soil. In loam soil and biochar amended loam soils, E. coli strains remained culturable until the 150th day with counts ranging between 3.00 and 5.94 ± 0.04 log CFU/g. The effects of biochar on the physicochemical properties of soil and the response of the E. coli strains to biochar amendment was variable depending on soil type. • E. coli exhibits variable survival behavior in soil based on soil type and biochar amendment. • Soil type significantly influence the survival of E. coli in soil. • E. coli strains survived for up to 150 days in loam soil. • Biochar application does not exert uniform impact on the survival of the six test E. coli strains in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irrigation water samples were collected from 69 farms in Sao Paulo during two rainy seasons and one dry season. Levels of culturable microorganisms were analyzed using direct plating technique, while levels of E. coli , Enterococci and Clostridium perfringens were determined using membrane filtration. Agroecosystem features including the incidence of manure stockpile, manure lagoon and livestock grazing, amongst others were observed and recorded. In the study area, groundwater (33%) was the most commonly exploited water resource for irrigating vegetables, while the least utilized resources were potable water (4%), streams (2%), lakes (2%) and domestic wastewater (2%). Other water resources exploited for irrigation in the area were farm ponds (21%), harvested rainwater (15%), canals (10%) and rivers (5%). The microbiological quality of water used to irrigate vegetables in the study area was variable depending on factors including source and treatment (chlorination) applied. The levels of culturable microorganisms recovered from the samples ranged between 11.0 and 1.7 log CFU/mL during the rainy and dry seasons, respectively, while the levels of E. coli , Enterococci and Clostridium perfringens detected in irrigation water samples were in the range of 0–6, 0 – 6.5, and 0 – 5.8 log CFU/100 mL, respectively. Irrigation water collected from farms that utilize surface waters such as canals and farm ponds generally contained higher levels of bacteria. In general, bacterial contamination varied among sources in the following order: surface water > groundwater > municipal water. Levels of bacteria detected in groundwater were comparatively low and in about 60% of the cases, for groundwater, no seasonal fluctuation in levels was observed. At the farms where seasonal fluctuations were observed for the levels of bacteria however, at least one potential source of fecal bacteria such as the presence of manure stockpile or livestock grazing was identified. • Groundwater and farm ponds were the main exploited sources for irrigation. • Seasonal variations in levels of indicator bacteria in surface water irrigation. • Irrigation water from farms that used chlorination contained low levels of E. coli. • Cattle grazing influence levels of Enterococci in groundwater irrigation water. • Manure composting is not common amongst studied farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contaminated irrigation water is among many potential vehicles of human pathogens to food plants, constituting significant public health risks especially for the fresh produce category. This review discusses some available guidelines or regulations for microbiological safety of irrigation water, and provides a summary of some common methods used for characterizing microbial contamination. The goal of such exploration is to understand some of the considerations that influence formulation of water testing guidelines, describe priority microbial parameters particularly with respect to food safety risks, and attempt to determine what methods are most suitable for their screening. Furthermore, the review discusses factors that influence the potential for microbiologically polluted irrigation water to pose substantial risks of pathogenic contamination to produce items. Some of these factors include type of water source exploited, irrigation methods, other agro ecosystem features/practices, as well as pathogen traits such as die-off rates. Additionally, the review examines factors such as food safety knowledge, other farmer attitudes or inclinations, level of social exposure and financial circumstances that influence adherence to water testing guidelines and other safe water application practices. A thorough understanding of relevant risk metrics for the application and management of irrigation water is necessary for the development of water testing criteria. To determine sampling and analytical approach for water testing, factors such as agricultural practices (which differ among farms and regionally), as well as environmental factors that modulate how water quality may affect the microbiological safety of produce should be considered. Research and technological advancements that can improve testing approach and the determination of target levels for hazard characterization or description for the many different pollution contexts as well as farmer adherence to testing requirements, are desirable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study reports the implementation of GMPs in a mozzarella cheese processing plant. The mozzarella cheese manufacturing unit is located in the Southwestern region of the state of Parana, Brazil, and processes 20,000L of milk daily. The implementation of GMP took place with the creation of a multidisciplinary team and it was carried out in four steps: diagnosis, report of the diagnosis and road map, corrective measures and follow-up of GMP implementation. The effectiveness of actions taken and GMP implementation was compared by the total percentages of non-conformities and conformities before and after implementation of GMP. Microbiological indicators were also used to assess the implementation of GMP in the mozzarella cheese processing facility. Results showed that the average percentage of conformity after the implementation of GMP was significant increased to 66%, while before it was 32% (p <0.05). The populations of aerobic microorganisms and total coliforms in equipment were significantly reduced (p <0.05) after the implementation of GMP, as well as the populations of total coliforms in the hands of food handlers (p <0.05). In conclusion, GMP implementation changed the overall organization of the cheese processing unity, as well as managers and food handlers’ behavior and knowledge on the quality and safety of products manufactured. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, the behavior and enterotoxin production by 10 different coagulase negative Staphylococcus (CNS) strains inoculated in cooked ham, reconstituted skimmed milk, and confectionery cream in the presence or absence of background microbiota have been investigated. After inoculation (10 CFU/g), foods were incubated at 25, 30, and 37 °C and aerobic mesophilic and CNS counts were carried out at 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. Staphylococcal enterotoxins (SE) detection was performed by SET-RPLA (Oxoid, Basingstoke, U.K.) and mini-Vidas® (bioMérieux, La Balme les Grottes, France). CNS counts increased during incubation and approached 10 to 10 CFU/g after 12 h at 37 °C in the 3 foods studied. At 25 °C, counts reached 10 to 10 CFU/g only after 24 to 48 h. The interference of background microbiota on CNS behavior was only observed when they grew in sliced cooked ham, which presented a high initial total count (10 CFU/g). Significantly higher counts of CNS isolated from raw cow's milk in comparison with food handlers isolates were found in reconstituted milk and confectionery cream. Although CNS strains were able to produce SEA, SEB, and SED in culture media, in foods, in the presence or absence of background microbiota S. chromogenes LE0598 was the only strain able to produce SEs. Despite the scarcity of reports on CNS involvement with foodborne disease outbreaks, the results found here support the CNS growth and SE production in foods even in the presence of background microbiota and may affect food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Minimally processed vegetables (MPV) may be important vehicles of Salmonella spp. and cause disease. This study aimed at detecting and enumerating Salmonella spp. in MPV marketed in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. A total of 512 samples of MPV packages collected in retail stores were tested for Salmonella spp. and total coliforms and Escherichia coli as indication of the hygienic status. Salmonella spp. was detected in four samples, two using the detection method and two using the counting method, where the results were 8.8 × 102 CFU/g and 2.4 × 102 CFU/g. The serovars were Salmonella Typhimurium (three samples) and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica O:47:z4,z23:- (one sample). Fourteen samples (2.7%) presented counts of E. coli above the maximum limit established by the Brazilian regulation for MPV (102 CFU/g). Therefore, tightened surveillance and effective intervention strategies are necessary in order to address consumers and governments concerns on safety of MPV. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ohmic heating may improve bioactive compounds and processing, ensuring food safety of beverages, liquid and pasty food, or liquid with solid pieces. Due to those traits, this study conducted a comparison between ohmic heating technology and conventional heating (CH), with a focus on assessing the impact of both methods on functional compounds (such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition, and antioxidant activity) in both fresh and thawed raw sheep milk, which had been frozen for up to 3 mo. Different ohmic heating conditions were applied and compared to CH (3.33–8.33 V/cm vs. CH [73°C/15 s]). A total of 18 peptides with some functional activities were identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry analysis. Ohmic heating samples presented the highest activities related to health, followed by CH and raw milk samples; antioxidant activity range was from 0.11% to 0.71%, antihypertensive activity ranged from 0.20% to 0.72%, and antidiabetic activity ranged from 0.21% to 0.79%. Of 51 volatile compounds detected, some were degraded by freezing, storing, and heating the sheep milk. This study showed for the first time that ohmic heating processing improved sheep milk bioactive peptides and preserved volatile compounds. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work investigates the effect of chlorine stress on the subsequent growth behavior of individual Salmonella cells. A time-lapse microscopy method was used which allowed to evaluate the effect of chlorine on the division times of Salmonella individual cells and the percentage of cells able to divide after the treatment. The results showed that the percentage of cells able to divide after the chlorine treatment decreased from 92.7% for untreated cells to 43.12% and 22% for cell exposed to 127 and 150 mg/l chlorine for 3 min, respectively. The first division time of Salmonella cells was not affected by the chlorine stress at the lower tested concentration of 11 mg/l. Exposure at higher chlorine concentrations however, resulted in significantly longer and more variable division times. The mean first division times were 1.46 ± 0.61, 1.41 ± 0.53, 1.69 ± 0.59, 5.34 ± 4.03 and 19.2 ± 8.71 h after 3 min treatments with 0, 11, 61, 127 and 150 mg/l chlorine, respectively. The effect of chlorine on the second division time of the cells was milder compared to the first division. Exposure of cells to chlorine concentrations up to 61 mg/l did not affect the second division. These results indicate that the daughter cells have no "memory" of the chlorine treatment at these concentrations. For cells exposed to the highest tested chlorine concentration of 150 mg/l the mean second division time was almost 3.5 times longer compared to untreated cells indicating that potential damages of the cells caused by the chlorine treatment are not fully repaired in the second generation. The quantitative data provided by this study at the level of individual cell may lead to a better understanding of microbial resistance to chlorine and improve sanitation and decontamination procedures in the food industry. Unlabelled Image • Salmonella was exposed to different chlorine concentration (0–150 mg/l) for 3 min. • The subsequent growth of individual cells was studied using time-lapse microscopy. • Division ability after the treatment decreased with increasing chlorine concentration. • First division was affected by the chlorine stress at the higher tested concentration. • Effect of chlorine on the second division was milder compared to the first division. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to perform a meta-analysis on the fate of ochratoxin A (OTA), zearalenone (ZEN), deoxynivalenol (DON) and total aflatoxin (TAF) during steps of bread and pasta-based products processing. A total of twenty and eight articles (549 data) collected from 1983 through June 2017 were included. Some of the investigated processing such as milling and fermentation caused an increase in the concentration of DON and TAF; although they reduce the concentration of ZEN and OTA. Also, heat processing (cooking) decrease the DON, OTA, and TAF and increase the concentration of ZEN in bread. Cooking reduces the concentration of DON and ZEN in the biscuit. Cooking of pasta reduces the content of DON; however, it increases the concentration of TFA. The findings showed that the mycotoxins and their fate were influenced differently by the unit operations steps involved in the preparation of the different cereal-based products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft drinks, which are largely produced and consumed worldwide, are acidic beverages (pH 2.5–4.0), formulated with water, sucrose, carbonated with 1.5–5.0 volumes of CO 2 , and added or not with chemical preservatives and fruit juices. A simplified manufacturing process of soft drinks consists of water treatment, production of simple syrup, production of compound syrup, carbonation and filling. As any other food and beverage, soft drinks can be contaminated by microorganisms; however, the low pH caused by the addition of acidulants, the presence of preservatives, and the presence of CO 2 comprise major barriers to microbial growth. Because of these characteristics, filamentous fungi and some bacteria, including pathogens, do not pose spoilage and safety risks for soft drinks. On the other hand, because of their tolerance to acidic environments and CO 2 , both yeasts and aciduric bacteria can survive and deteriorate soft drinks. This review deals with the microorganisms of relevance, as well as with the factors influencing their survival and role on soft drink spoilage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the impact of adaptation of ten strains of O157:H7 and non-O157 Escherichia coli to low pH (acid shock or slow acidification) and the effects of this exposure or not on the resistance of E. coli strains to UV radiation in orange juice (pH 3.5). The acid-shocked cells were obtained through culture in tryptic soy broth (TSB) with a final pH of 4.8, which was adjusted by hydrochloric, lactic, or citric acid and subsequently inoculated in orange juice at 4 °C for 30 days. No significant differences (p > 0.05) in survival in orange juice were observed between the serotypes O157:H7 and non-O157:H7 for acid-shocked experiments. After slow acidification, where the cells were cultured in TSB supplemented with glucose 1% (TSB + G), a significant increase (p < 0.05) in survival was observed for all strains evaluated. The D-values (radiation dose (J/cm2) necessary to decrease the microbial population by 90%) were determined as the inverse of the slopes of the regressions (k) obtained by plotting log (N/N 0). The results show that among the strains tested, E. coli O157:H7 (303/00) and O26:H11 were the most resistant and sensitive strains, respectively. According to our results, the method of acid adaptation contributes to increasing the UV resistance for most of the strains tested. • Slow acidity is more efficient than acid shock to acid adaptation of the cells. • Cell survival in orange juice differs according to the acid used after acid shock. • Resistance to UV radiation was increased by acid adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gelatin, a versatile protein derived from collagen, is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical and medical sectors. However, bacterial contamination by spore-forming bacteria during gelatin processing represents a significant concern for product safety and quality. In this study, an investigation was carried out to explore the heat and chemical resistance, as well as the identification and characterization of spore-forming bacteria isolated from gelatin processing. The methodologies involved chemical resistance tests with drastic pH in microplates and thermal resistance tests in capillary tubes of various isolates obtained at different processing stages. In addition, phenotypic and genotypic analyses were carried out to characterize the most resistant isolates of spore-forming bacteria. The findings of this study revealed the presence of several species, including Bacillus cereus , Bacillus licheniformis , Bacillus sonorensis , Bacillus subtilis , Geobacillus stearothermophilus , and Clostridium sporogenes , with some isolates exhibiting remarkable chemical and heat resistances. In addition, a significant proportion of the most resistant isolates showed gelatinase activity (n = 19/21; 90.5 %) and the presence of heat resistance (n = 5/21; 23.8 %), and virulence genes (n = 11/21; 52.4 %). The results of this study suggest that interventions should be done in quality control practices and that process parameter adjustments and effective contamination reduction strategies should be implemented through gelatin processing. • Spore-forming bacteria from gelatin processing showed remarkable resistance to thermal and chemical treatments. • 90.5 % of the strains selected as most resistant can degrade gelatin. • Detection of genes linked to heat resistance and virulence. • Raises critical safety concerns for gelatin-based products [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, a total of 172 samples of minimally processed vegetables (MPV) were collected from supermarkets in the city of Campinas, Brazil. The MPV were analyzed using traditional and/or alternative methods for total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, total coliforms, Escherichia coli, coagulase positive staphylococci, Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. All the MPV analyzed presented populations of aerobic mesophilic microorganisms and total coliforms were >4 log10 CFU/g and 1.0–3.4 log10 CFU/g, respectively. E. coli was enumerated in only 10 samples out of 172 collected, while none of the 172 samples of MPV presented contamination by coagulase positive Staphylococcus (<101 CFU/g). Among the four methods used for detection of Salmonella in MPV (Vidas, 1,2 Test, Reveal, and Traditional), when Reveal was used a total of 29 positive samples were reported. For L. monocytogenes, the four methods tested (Vidas, Vip, Reveal, and traditional) performed similarly. The presence of Salmonella and L. monocytogenes in MPV was confirmed in one (watercress) and two samples (watercress and escarole), respectively. In conclusion, it has been observed that the microbiological quality of MPV commercialized in Campinas is generally satisfactory. Besides, the choice of microbiological method should be based not only on resource and time issues, but also on parameters such as sensitivity and specificity for the specific foods under analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Quantitative microbiological risk assessment (QMRA) is the most complex stage of risk analysis, an important management tool that considers the entire food production chain. Through safety limits, health authorities and producers are concerned with achieving the minimum risk to consumer health. Dairy products are a class of foods very susceptible to microbial contamination, and need an extensive database of studies in this regard. This review aims to provide an understanding of the structure of QMRA and its application in dairy products, taking into account the processing chains of dairy products and the influence of study factors in different regions. The limitations and factors of complexity in the construction of the QMRA models in milk and cheese pasteurized or not, are also presented. Considerable differences were found in consumption habits between populations in different regions, significantly affecting the risk associated with infection or disease. Transport and retail conditions of the products also show a strong influence on the final risk, as well as the hygiene conditions of the milk used as raw material. Studies of this type are scarce, especially in dairy products, requiring further development of QMRA models. Risk assessment is a promising tool for verifying the effectiveness of using new processing technologies, based on the search for the lowest possible risk associated with food. • Quantitative microbiological risk assessment in dairy products. • Theory aspects are practical application in dairy processing are presented. • Quantitative microbiological risk assessment can be used by regulatory agencies. • Quantitative microbiological risk as tool for predictive model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study a total of 220 isolates of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) recovered from 10 types of Brazilian artisanal cheeses marketed in 4 main regions of Brazil were evaluated regarding their safety and ability to produce diacetyl (a precursor of aromatic compounds), exopolysaccharides (EPS; from different sugar sources), and antagonistic activity against Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. The results indicated that 131 isolates (59.6%) were classified as strong (40.5%) and moderate (19.1%) diacetyl producers; 28 isolates (12.7%) stood out due to their remarkable production of EPS from different sugars, including sucrose (3.2%), fructose (2.3%), lactose (2.3%), and glucose (6%). Furthermore, 94.1% and 95.9% of isolates presented antagonistic activity against S. aureus and L. monocytogenes , respectively, even though only 27 isolates (12.3%) exhibited positive results in the bacteriocin production test. None of the isolates tested presented hemolytic activity, and 117 were classified as safe, due to their intrinsic resistance to a maximum of 4 different antibiotics. The data obtained for assessment of antibiogram profile and technological potential (moderate and high production of diacetyl, EPS, and bacteriocins) were submitted to a multiple correspondence analysis to correlate them with the cheese of isolation. Regarding the antimicrobial profile of LAB strains, it was possible to verify an association between isolates from Minas artisanal cheeses from Araxá and resistance to tetracycline; Minas artisanal cheeses from Serro and resistance to erythromycin; Coalho and Minas artisanal cheese from Cerrado and resistance to penicillin; and isolates from Serrano and Colonial cheeses with clindamycin and ceftazidime resistance. Although the susceptibility of strains to these antibiotics was considered high (71.8–80.5%), these data may be related to the horizontal transfer of genes in the production chain of these cheeses. Results of multiple correspondence analysis also showed that isolates with antagonistic activity were mostly isolated from Manteiga, Colonial, and Coalho cheeses. The isolates with high or moderate EPS-producer ability from sucrose, glucose, and fructose were mainly associated with Minas artisanal cheeses from Cerrado. In contrast, isolates with high or moderate EPS-producer ability from lactose were isolated from Serrano, Minas artisanal cheeses from Canastra, and Campo das Vertentes microregions. Finally, isolates from Minas artisanal cheeses (from Araxá microregion), Coalho, and Caipira cheeses were associated with moderate/high diacetyl production. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study provides, for the first time, data indicating that the dominant technological, biopreservative, and safety properties of LAB isolates can be correlated with the type of Brazilian artisanal cheeses, which denotes its singularity. This knowledge is of utmost relevance for the development of starter or adjunct cultures with tailored properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the perceptions and attitudes of artisanal cheese producers (n = 40) in Brazil regarding the implementation of traceability. A questionnaire consisting of 16 statements using a 5-point Likert scale was applied, and descriptive statistics and factor analysis were used for data analysis. The implementation of a traceability system can reduce the number of consumer complaints and the loss of products, in addition to increasing supplier control and process safety, thus protecting health and increasing consumer confidence. However, we did not find consensus on the relationship between implementation of a traceability system and rapid recalls in crisis episodes, or on the reduction in recalls and their negative impact on consumers. Because of the costs that drive implementation of this technology, some artisanal cheese producers do not consider a traceability system as a current reality to monitor their production. We concluded that Brazilian artisanal cheese producers have limited awareness of the impact of traceability implementation, which restricts investments in the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cronobacter sakazakii is one of the pathogens of significant concern in powdered infant formula (PIF), with a death rate of up to 80% infection. However, PIF is characterized by its low water content, which makes it a harmful environment for vegetative bacteria. C. sakazakii can survive in this environment, which complicates the challenge of food safety. This review discusses the complexity of the desiccation as an environmental perturbation, which can engender different armful change in the environment and the cell. This conduct exposes different mechanisms that permit C. sakazakii to survive this drastic stress, by counterbalancing the effect of desiccation, but also by repairing the eventual damages. The link between desiccation and other environmental stresses commonly food in PIF industries were presented. The various strategies of C. sakazakii to survive desiccation have a key role in persistence, and among them, common pathways with other Enterobacteriaceae, like the accumulation of osmoprotectant or the production of chaperone proteins that prevent oxidative damages. Nevertheless, other resistance mechanisms seem specific to C. sakazakii as its specific membrane management and still must be better described. Understanding C. sakazakii unique response to desiccation can lead to new opportunities to ensure powdered infants' food safety and properly control this microorganism in the processing environment. • Cronobacter sakazakii is a critical biohazard in powdered infant formula (PIF). • C. sakazakii (CK) has a notable strong resistance to desiccation. • CK possesses a wild range of acclimation mechanisms to desiccation. • Understanding CK resistance to desiccation will allow to ensure PIF safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the adhesion and formation of biofilm by five Salmonella enterica strains (S. Enteritidis 132, S. Infantis 176, S. Typhimurium 177, S. Heidelberg 281 and S. Corvallis 297) on polypropylene (PP) and glass (G) surfaces as affected by pH (4–7), NaCl concentration (0–10% w/v) and temperature (8–35 °C). Sessile counts <3 log CFU/cm2 were considered lack of adhesion (category 1), while counts ≥ 3 and < 5 log CFU/cm2 corresponded to adhesion (category 2) and counts ≥ 5 log CFU/cm2 corresponded biofilm formation (category 3). The obtained results categorized in these three responses were used to develop ordinal regression models to predict the probability of biofilm stages on PP- and G-surfaces. The experimental outcomes for lack of adhesion were >90% on PP- and G-surfaces. Generally, adhesion outcomes corresponded to approximately 36% of the total, whereas biofilm outcomes were close to 65% in both PP- and G-surfaces. The biofilm stages varied among the strains studied and with the material surface under the same experimental conditions. According to the generated ordinal models, the probability of adhesion and biofilm formation on PP-surface by the five S. enterica strains tested decreased at pH 4 or 5 in NaCl concentrations >4% and at a temperature <20 °C. On G-surface, the probability of adhesion increased pH 6 or 7, in the absence of NaCl and temperatures <20 °C, while, the probability of biofilm formation increased in the same pH, NaCl concentration up to 4% and temperatures ≥20 °C. This is the first study assessing the biofilm formation through categorical, ordinal responses and it shows that ordinal regression models can be useful to predict biofilm stages of S. enterica as a function of pH, NaCl, and temperature or their interactions. • Biofilm formation on glass (G) or polypropylene (PP) varied among Salmonella serovars. • Salmonella serovars were able to adhere and form biofilm at pH 4 or 5 up to 6% NaCl. • Changes in pH, NaCl concentration or temperature (T) affect the biofilm stages. • Probability of adhesion on G increased at pH ≥ 6, absence of NaCl and T < 20 °C. • Probability of biofilm on PP decreased at pH 4 or 5, NaCl > 4% and T < 20 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• D3G, 3-ADON and 15-ADON can be formed from DON at different processing stages. • Technological aspects, influencing factors of D3G, 3-ADON and 15-ADON were discussed. • The pooled concentration and occurrence of emerging mycotoxins was 6.12 µg/kg and 54%. • Rank of emerging mycotoxins was Culmorin > 15-Hydroxyculmorin > 5-Hydroxyculmorin. This study was aimed to evaluate the fate of D3G, 3-ADON, and 15-ADON during various processing steps (milling, fermentation, baking and cooking with water) of different cereal-based products, as well as the co-occurrence of culmorin (CUL) and its derivatives (15-Hydroxy-CUL and 5-Hydroxy-CUL. Some databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were screened to collect the relevant published papers between January 1983 to October 2018, and 23 articles with 319 data were included. The baking resulted in reductions in the concentration of all types of investigated masked mycotoxins, i.e., 15-ADON (−25%) > 3-ADON (−15%) > D3G (−6%). Also, rank order of CUL and its derivatives based on occurrence was CUL (70%) > 15-Hydroxy-CUL (47%) > 5-Hydroxy-CUL (15%) and their rank based on their concentration was 5-Hydroxy-CUL (99.21 µg/kg) > CUL (48.84 µg/kg) > 15-Hydroxy-CUL (9.39 µg/kg) > Hydroxy -CUL (0.06 µg/kg) > 12-Hydroxy-CUL (0.05 µg/kg) > 14-Hydroxy-CUL (0.01 µg/kg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella enterica serotypes have been reported as the agent of various outbreaks occurred after the consumption of low water activity (a w) foods. When the pathogen encounters harsh conditions, several regulatory networks are activated through dynamic differential gene expression that lead to cell survival for prolonged periods. In this work, the transcriptome of S. enterica serovar Typhimurium using RNA-Seq, after cells' inoculation in four distinct types of low a w foods (milk chocolate, powdered milk, black pepper, and dried pet food), following storage at 25 °C per 24 and 72 h was studied. The findings of this study suggest that gene regulation is influenced by the food composition mainly in the first 24 h post-inoculum, proceeded by the induction of similar genes shared among all samples. It was possible to evaluate the differences on each type of food matrix regarding the bacteria adaptation, as well as the similarities provoked by low a w. The results reveal genes that may play key roles in response to desiccation in Salmonella , as well as the pathways in which they are involved. • RNA-Seq was performed in S. enterica after inoculum in four different types of food. • Macronutrients content affects mainly the first 24 h of S. enterica adaptation. • After 72 h inoculum, dehydration responses presented higher similar patterns. • Plasmidial genes of S. enterica SL1344 were highly induced after 72 h of inoculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cereal and cereal-based products are used as an important sources of energy and minerals as well as vitamins in all of the world. However, their contamination with mycotoxins reserved huge concerns due to adverse effects of mycotoxin on human health. The present research was undertaken to evaluate published studies regarding the identification of mycotoxins zearalenone (ZEN), ochratoxin A (OTA), deoxynivalenol (DON), and total aflatoxin (TAF) in the cereal-based products between 1 January 1983 and 25 December 2017. In this regard, 66 out of 2817 screened studies were used in the conducted systematic review. The lowest and highest number of published reports was associated with DON and TAF in some of the cereal-based products, respectively. Among the countries, Germany was ranked as the first in establishing investigations. Moreover, the liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI/MS) was categorized as the most implemented technique for mycotoxin detection. The rank order of products cereal-based food based on number of studies was cereal grains > cornflake > bread > breakfast > flour > infant product > pasta > other products. The results of this study not only summarized the most frequently mycotoxin detection technique but also may provide a roadmap for future research regarding the mycotoxins detection analysis. Image 1 • 66 articles were included in the identification of mycotoxins in cereal based foods study. • The rank order of mycotoxins based on studies was DON > ZEN > OTA > TAF. • Highest number of study was performed on the cereal grain. • The highest used methods for detection mycotoxins was LC-ESI/MS. • The highest number of studies was related to Germany (n = 32). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New technologies of non-thermal disinfection such as pulsed light (PL) have emerged lately as an alternative to traditional (thermal and chemical) disinfection and preservation methods. PL can be used to decontaminate a great variety of foods as well as to decontaminate contact surfaces, thus improving safety in foods and extending their shelf life. Moreover, this technology can prevent or reduce some of the detrimental effects of traditional methods on nutrients and bioactive compounds of food products. The combination of PL with other techniques such as ultraviolet light (UV), thermosonication (TS), pulsed electric fields (PEF), manothermosonication (MTS), etc., can improve the effectiveness of the decontamination process. Therefore, in this review, some of the most relevant studies evaluating the potential application of PL treatments to decontaminate food samples, and its impact of nutritional and physicochemical quality parameters will be discussed. PL treatments are suitable for microbial decontamination in transparent drinks and for surface contaminated foods without complex microstructures. They also can be used for meat, fish and their by-products However, it is still necessary to evaluate the appropriate treatment conditions (number of light flashed, voltage, distance between sample and flash light, spectral range of light flashes and contamination) for each food and microorganism separately to improve the effectiveness and minimize the appearance of negative attributes reducing the quality of product as, in some cases, PL can have a negative effect on the photosensitive compounds and sensory characteristics of food products. • Pulsed light (PL) have emerged lately as an alternative to traditional disinfection and preservation methods. • The combination of PL with other techniques can improve the effectiveness of the decontamination process. • PL can have a negative impact on the sensory properties of food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to estimate the risk of listeriosis from the consumption of pasteurized milk in Brazil, comparing conventional treatment with the technology of thermosonication. The Quantitative Microbiological Risk Assessment (QMRA) model was developed, covering the entire milk production chain, from milking to the moment of consumption. In general, higher risks were observed in association with higher initial concentrations of the pathogen and the vulnerable population. The highest risk predicted (3.67 × 10−5) was related to the scenario considering the initial concentration range of L. monocytogenes between 4 and 6 log CFU/mL, with conventional treatment and considering the vulnerable population, resulting in one case of listeriosis every 27,248 servings. When considering thermosonication treatment, lower risks have been predicted. The scenario analysis indicated that the steps related to storage conditions in retail and at the consumer's home (post-processing steps) are the most influential in the associated risk, in all scenarios. The predictive parameters of inactivation related to the applied treatment also have a considerable influence on the risk. The results point to the influence of the stages of the dairy production chain and the thermosonication treatment applied in the food safety of milk, subsidizing information for industrial application and for regulatory agencies. • In milk treated by thermosonication, lower risks were predicted than for pasteurization. • Steps related to storage conditions in retail are the most influential for the risk. • The highest risk value was associated with one case of listeriosis per 27,248 servings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the probability of occurrence of fumonisins in corn in the states of greatest production in Brazil was determined. The data were analyzed through quantitative risk analysis using the Monte Carlo simulation. The results indicated that there is a strong correlation between fumonisins contamination levels and the geographical region due to the influence of climatic characteristics, with temperature having the main influence. The Southern states presented higher risks of occurrence and concentration levels of fumonisins in corn due to the temperate climate with lower average temperature and higher relative humidity and precipitation indices. Cultivation in the best season indicates a significant reduction in the production of fumonisins when this period was evaluated, with average concentration levels up to 42% lower. The generated data are important for regulatory agencies and the agricultural sector, which needs to be aware that the chance of success in grain production depends on efficient planning of the growing season, mainly concerning the climatic conditions to which it is subject to minimize the risks. • Risk of fumonisins in corn was assessed using quantitative risk assessment; • Temperature plays a critical role in fumonisin incidence and level in corn; • Reduction in fumonisin of up to 42% when cultivation at the best time was assessed; • Strong correlation between fumonisins levels and the geographical region was found; • Low temperatures and high humidity increased the probability of fumonisin in corn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study estimated the risk of listeriosis from Brazilian cheese consumption using quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA). Risks associated to consumption of two cheese types were assessed: artisanal ripened semi-hard cheese (produced with raw milk) and refrigerated fresh soft cheese (produced with pasteurized milk). The semi-hard cheese model predicted Listeria monocytogenes growth or decline during ripening, while the soft cheese model predicted pathogen growth during refrigerated storage. Semi-hard cheese modeling scenarios considered L. monocytogenes starting concentration from −2.4 to 6 log CFU/mL in raw milk and three ripening times (4, 22 and 60 days). Soft cheese modeling scenarios considered L. monocytogenes starting concentration from −2.4 to 4 log CFU/mL in milk. The inclusion of anti-listerial lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in cheeses was also examined. Risk of listeriosis due to consumption of soft cheese was 6000 and 190 times greater than that of semi-hard cheese, for general and vulnerable populations, respectively. Aging semi-hard cheese reduced risk, and risk was influenced by L. monocytogenes starting concentration. Aging cheese with inhibitory LAB for 22 days reduced risk over 4 million-fold when L. monocytogenes was assumed to be 6 log CFU/mL in raw milk. The inclusion of inhibitory LAB also reduced risk of listeriosis due to soft cheese consumption, but not as much as for semi-hard cheese. QMRA results predicted that consumption of contaminated cheeses can carry a high risk of listeriosis, especially for vulnerable populations. Scenario analyses indicated that aging of semi-hard cheese and inclusion of antimicrobial LAB mix in semi-hard and soft cheeses are effective risk mitigation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of physical hazards in dairy products (2012–2016) was investigated through a complaint website ( Reclame Aqui ) used by Brazilian consumers to report complaints. Among the complaints, 2% referred to the presence of physical hazards in the products. With regard to milk and dairy products, 515 complaints were reported, with the greatest percentage for yogurt/milk drink (37%) followed by UHT milk (14.6%) and milk powder (10.7%). The least cited products were Prato Cheese, Brie-type cheese, and Cottage cheese (0.3–0.4%). The most reported hazards were the presence of foreign objects (42.4%), followed by insects (23.3%), hair (15.2%), plastics (11.1%), metal (6.2%) and fabric (1.8%). The results showed failures in both Brazilian dairy foods processing and the public-sector inspection, and demonstrated that the Internet has proven to be an effective tool for spreading consumer dissatisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of sporeforming bacteria in different types of beers (n = 163) and to assess the presence of hor genes in the isolates. Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate the fate of five representative sporeforming bacteria harboring horA and horC genes in alcohol-free and lager beers. Two hundred and sixty (n = 260) sporeforming bacteria belonging to eight different genera were isolated from beers, i.e., Bacillus (n = 118), Paenibacillus (n = 89) and Brevibacillus (n = 41), Lysinbacillus (n = 6), Cohnella (n = 3), Rummeliibacillus (n = 1), Alicyclobacillus (n = 1), and Anoxybacillus (n = 1), respectively. A predominance of members within the Bacillus cereus sensu lato (n = 72; 27.1%), followed by B. megaterium (n = 18; 7%), P. validus (n = 16; 6.1%), P. humicus (n = 13; 5%), P. alginolyticus (n = 13; 5%) and Br. brevis (n = 13; 5%) was observed in beer samples analyzed. Only 5% (n = 14) out of 260 sporeforming bacterial isolates recovered from beers harbored one or both horA and horC genes. Only one (0.3%) isolate, i.e., Bacillus cereus sensu lato (identified as B. thuringiensis LMQA 206) presented both horA and horC genes. None of the five bacterial sporeforming strains harboring horA or horC genes inoculated was able to grow in the beers throughout the storage period studied, and no spoilage was detected. The results of this study indicated a widespread occurrence of sporeforming bacteria in several types of beers from different brands, highlighting that measures should be taken to reduce the occurrence of sporeforming bacteria considering stability and safety concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Processed cheese is produced by blending natural cheese of different ages and degrees of maturity in the presence of emulsifying salts and other dairy and nondairy ingredients, followed by heating and continuous mixing to form a homogeneous product with an extended shelf life. However, due to the thermal processing applied and the extended shelf life, spore-forming bacteria may result in safety and stability issues. Scope and approach The primary sources of contamination by spore-forming bacteria, routes of contamination and their fate throughout the processing and storage of processed cheese and analogues are reviewed. In addition, the main consequences of the survival and growth of these organisms in processed cheese are discussed. Lastly, aiming to ensure the quality and safety of processed cheese, strategies for controlling spore-forming bacteria from farm to processing and storage are highlighted. Key findings and conclusions The main bacterial genera found in processed cheese are Bacillus spp. and Clostridium spp., which is due to their wide presence in milk and the dairy farm environment as well as their abilities to form spores and withstand harsh processing conditions. Knowledge of the spore diversity in processed cheese and their responses to efforts used to increase the product's stability are critical for developing more stable formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mold contamination has challenged the safety of feed production and processing because of its undeniable role in the spoilage and the possible consequent toxicity impact on human health and the economy. Aflatoxin M 1 (AFM 1 ) is a hepatocarcinogenic derivative of aflatoxin B 1 excreted into the milk after ingestion of feed contaminated by certain molds. Because of the important role of dairy products, especially milk in the human diet, there is a huge concern about the presence of AFM 1 in milk and dairy products. In this article, the occurrence of AFM 1 and the fate of AFM 1 during processing of milk and dairy products, such as yoghurt and cheeses, since 1996 until today, was reviewed. The evaluation of mechanisms by which AFM 1 is affected by each processing step is of major importance to provide useful and accurate information to develop risk assessment studies and risk management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]