Enhanced inactivation of Listeria monocytogenes by nisin in the presence of ethanol.
OBJECTIVE
The effect of combinations of nisin and ethanol on the survival of Listeria monocytogenes was investigated.


RESULTS
Killing by nisin was enhanced during simultaneous exposure to ethanol (2-7% v/v). For example, while 10 IU ml(-1) nisin reduced viability by 1 log unit in 20 min, a combination of this antimicrobial peptide and 5% ethanol, reduced numbers of surviving cells by 3 log units. Increasing the concentrations of either ethanol (2-7%) or nisin (10-50 IU ml(-1)) led to increased cell death with synergy being demonstrated for all combinations tested and at a range of temperatures from 5 to 37 degrees C.


CONCLUSIONS
Ethanol can act synergistically with nisin to reduce the survival of L. monocytogenes.


CONCLUSIONS
Combinations of ethanol and nisin may be feasible as an effective way of controlling this pathogen in the food processing environment.
Brewer
R
R
School of Biomedical and Life Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK.
Adams
M R
MR
Park
S F
SF
D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004357:Drug Synergism; D000431:Ethanol / Q000494:pharmacology*; D008089:Listeria monocytogenes / Q000187:drug effects*; D008560:Membrane Fluidity / Q000187:drug effects; D009561:Nisin / Q000494:pharmacology*
D009561:Nisin; D000431:Ethanol