Invention:
These liquid and powder sprays use antimicrobials extracted from plants and other natural sources to inhibit the growth of foodborne pathogens in meat products. This natural method is both effective and efficient while addressing the current issues associated with chemical-based food sanitizers including consumer health and cost.
Background:
The innovators have used various natural antimicrobials in powder or liquid spray form on beef, pork, and chicken products. The meats were inoculated with foodborne pathogens, treated with the natural antimicrobial sprays, and stored at refrigeration temperature. Tests showed a decrease in pathogen levels up to 98.4-99.75% (depending on the type of pathogen).
Applications:
- Commercial: treat meat products to prevent the growth of foodborne pathogens without resorting to unsafe or environmentally harmful antimicrobials such as chlorine
Advantages:
- Natural, plant-based, antimicrobial agents replace harsher chemicals to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria
- Delivery via powder or liquid spray requires little use of water and energy, therefore reducing costs
- Kills common foodborne pathogens at a rate comparable to most synthetic antimicrobial preservatives
