microbial contamination

Ultrasound-assisted development and characterization of novel polyphenol-loaded pullulan/trehalose composite films for fruit preservation

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Researchers developed a new type of edible food wrap made from natural plant materials (tea polyphenols, pullulan, and trehalose) treated with ultrasound. This wrap is stronger, more protective against oxygen and moisture, and kills harmful bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. When used to wrap fresh apples and pears, it significantly extended their shelf life by reducing browning and decay.

Advances and Challenges in Smart Packaging Technologies for the Food Industry: Trends, Applications, and Sustainability Considerations

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Smart food packaging is evolving from simple containers into intelligent systems that actively protect food and communicate its freshness to consumers. These packages use special materials, embedded sensors, and smart labels to monitor temperature, detect spoilage early, and provide real-time tracking information. While these technologies promise fresher food, longer shelf life, and reduced waste, they face challenges including cost, environmental impact, and privacy concerns that need to be addressed for widespread adoption.

Physiological Insights into Enhanced Epsilon-Poly-l-Lysine Production Induced by Extract Supplement from Heterogeneous Streptomyces Strain

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Researchers discovered that exposing bacteria that produce epsilon-poly-l-lysine (a natural antimicrobial compound) to extracts from another closely related bacterium dramatically increases production by 2.6-fold. Using advanced analysis techniques, they found that this boost occurs because the extract triggers the bacteria to activate defense mechanisms, rerouting its metabolism to produce more of this antimicrobial compound. This finding could significantly reduce the cost of producing this useful natural preservative for foods and medicines, making it more commercially viable.

pH-responsive imine-chitosan-based intelligent controlled-release packaging films with transformable antimicrobial modes from defense to attack

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Researchers developed a smart food packaging film that fights bacteria and fungi in two different ways depending on acidity levels. When stored with neutral pH foods, the film’s surface prevents microbes from sticking to it. When the food becomes more acidic (like in tomato juice), the film releases antimicrobial compounds that actively kill the microorganisms. Tests showed it effectively preserved cherry tomatoes and tomato juice while blocking harmful UV light.

Obtaining and Studying the Properties of Composite Materials from ortho-, meta-, para-Carboxyphenylmaleimide and ABS

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Researchers developed new plastic materials based on ABS that can resist bacterial and fungal growth, making them ideal for medical equipment and food packaging. By adding special chemical additives (carboxyphenylmaleimides) to the plastic, the materials became antibacterial while maintaining their useful properties like strength and heat resistance. The study tested three different versions of these additives and found that all performed well against dangerous bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with the potential to reduce infection risks in hospitals and healthcare settings.

Valorization of Mushroom Residues for Functional Food Packaging

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Mushrooms produce large amounts of waste during growth and processing, but these leftovers contain valuable compounds that can protect food and extend shelf life. Scientists are developing ways to extract these beneficial compounds and add them to eco-friendly packaging films, creating materials that fight bacteria and oxidation naturally. This approach transforms mushroom waste into useful products while reducing environmental pollution, making food packaging safer and more sustainable for consumers.

Influence of the Ultrasonic Treatment on the Properties of Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate, Modified by Antimicrobial Additive

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Researchers developed a new eco-friendly plastic material for food packaging that combines two important benefits: it breaks down naturally in the environment, and it prevents harmful bacteria and fungi from growing on food. The material is made from a biodegradable plastic called PBAT mixed with a natural extract from birch bark. Using special ultrasonic sound waves during manufacturing helped distribute the birch extract evenly throughout the material, improving its performance.

Essential Oil Nanoemulsions—A New Strategy to Extend the Shelf Life of Smoothies

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This review explores how essential oil nanoemulsions could naturally preserve smoothies and extend their freshness. Essential oils have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties but taste and smell too strong at effective doses. Nanoemulsions—tiny oil droplets encapsulated in water—solve this problem by being more effective at lower concentrations while maintaining good taste, making them a promising natural alternative to chemical preservatives.

Disease: microbial contamination