2010 | Manuel Simões, Lúcia C. Simões, Maria J. Vieira
A review of current and emerging biofilm control strategies in the dairy industry is presented. Biofilms, formed by microbial adhesion to surfaces, are resistant to conventional cleaning and disinfection methods, posing challenges in food processing. They are a significant source of contamination, leading to food spoilage and public health risks. Current control strategies include the use of biosolutions such as enzymes, phages, and microbial metabolites. Biofilms in the dairy industry are primarily composed of bacterial extracellular polymeric substances and milk residues. They can harbor pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Salmonella, which can cause foodborne illnesses. Biofilm formation is influenced by factors such as surface properties, microbial interactions, and environmental conditions. Effective control requires understanding biofilm formation mechanisms and implementing strategies such as regular cleaning, surface modification, and the use of antimicrobial agents. Enzymes, phages, and microbial interactions are emerging as promising alternatives to traditional methods. The review highlights the need for new strategies to combat biofilm resistance and improve food safety in the dairy industry.A review of current and emerging biofilm control strategies in the dairy industry is presented. Biofilms, formed by microbial adhesion to surfaces, are resistant to conventional cleaning and disinfection methods, posing challenges in food processing. They are a significant source of contamination, leading to food spoilage and public health risks. Current control strategies include the use of biosolutions such as enzymes, phages, and microbial metabolites. Biofilms in the dairy industry are primarily composed of bacterial extracellular polymeric substances and milk residues. They can harbor pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Salmonella, which can cause foodborne illnesses. Biofilm formation is influenced by factors such as surface properties, microbial interactions, and environmental conditions. Effective control requires understanding biofilm formation mechanisms and implementing strategies such as regular cleaning, surface modification, and the use of antimicrobial agents. Enzymes, phages, and microbial interactions are emerging as promising alternatives to traditional methods. The review highlights the need for new strategies to combat biofilm resistance and improve food safety in the dairy industry.