Search

Antimicrobial surfaces are one approach to prevent biofilms in the food industry. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of poly((tert-butyl-amino)-methyl-styrene) (poly(TBAMS)) incorporated into linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) on the formation of mono- and mixed-species biofilms. The biofilm on untreated and treated LLDPE was determined after 48 and 168 h. The comparison of the results indicated that the ability of Listeria monocytogenes to form biofilms was completely suppressed by poly(TBAMS) (Δ 168 h 3.2 log 10  cfu cm -2 ) and colonization of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was significantly delayed, but no effect on Pseudomonas fluorescens was observed. The results of dual-species biofilms showed complex interactions between the microorganisms, but comparable effects on the individual bacteria by poly(TBAMS) were identified. Antimicrobial treatment with poly(TBAMS) shows great potential to prevent biofilms on polymeric surfaces. However, a further development of the material is necessary to reduce the colonization of strong biofilm formers.

This paper aims to identify how cold chain management is provided throughout the transportation of perishable food, as well as the role of the experience and working conditions of drivers in perishable food transportation. It draws on survey data collected from Mexican perishable food carriers with headquarters in six major cities. The results show the characteristics of the vehicles used to transport perishable food by Mexican carriers and the cooling technologies utilized by vehicles carrying different types of meat. Further, the results elucidate the work experience and training of drivers handling perishable products and problems related to cold chain transportation as a major strength, while weaknesses were those reported with loading delays and lack of widespread wireless system implementation for temperature registration. It also provides one of the first pieces of information on Mexico's foodstuff transportation system, with the aim of designing strategies for better cold chain tracking during transportation, as a key factor in food waste reduction. It is necessary to incorporate a greater number of participants from other geographical areas of the country in order to get a more detailed overview and to determine similarities and differences between regions. This study provides baseline information for the development of appropriate logistics strategies in cold chain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of a photochromic time-temperature indicator (TTI) under dynamic temperature conditions simulating real fresh fish distribution chain scenarios. The work aimed at testing the possibility of extending the application of the TTI kinetic model, developed for specific temperature range of isothermal conditions, at low temperatures. The results showed that the TTI presented reproducible responses after being charged and during the discolouration process under different conditions, which revealed the reliability of the indicator. The TTI reflected well the temperature conditions of the studied scenarios, which indicates its potential application to continuously monitor the temperature history of the fresh fish supply chain. The kinetic model gave good fits in non-abused scenarios at temperatures below 2 °C, presenting the potential for application of the model in determining the right charging level to suit a product's shelf life at low temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]