BACTERIOCINS APPLIED TO FOOD-PACKAGING MATERIALS TO INHIBIT LISTERIA-MONOCYTOGENES ON MEATS

Bacteriocins in powders were produced from milk-based media and applie d to food packaging films. Nisin and pediocin ''powders'' were retaine d in casings during dialysis. Antilisterial casings were prepared by i nternal coating with pediocin. Antilisterial activity applied in powde red form was retained during processing and retained on contact food p ackaging surfaces. Pediocin powder was applied to plastic packaging ba gs at 7.75 mu g/cm(2). Meats and poultry samples were inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes. The bags coated with pediocin powder completel y inhibited growth of inoculated L. monocytogenes through 12 wk storag e at 4 degrees C. Applying bacteriocins to food packaging films is an effective approach to reduce L. monocytogenes contamination in meats a nd poultry.