Project Number: 6612-41420-012-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Nov 09, 2001
End Date: May 31, 2006

Objective:
Objective 1: Elucidate the formation and composition of biofilms on processing plant surfaces. Objective 2: Develop methods to prevent the formation of, or facilitate removal of biofilms on processing plant surfaces to allow efficacious cleaning and sanitizing.

Approach:
Innovative techniques for labeling pathogens, especially Campylobacter jejuni (Cj)& Listeria monocytogenes (Lm), & sampling biofilms will be tested to accurately represent the biofilm community. Improved methods will be developed for culturing human pathogens in poultry processing biofilms. A lab model of biofilm formation that includes target pathogens will be established. Methods will be developed for producing biofilms & observing target pathogens. Diverse bacterial populations will be profiled for susceptibility to control. The approaches focus on inhibition of bacterial contamination by physical, chemical, & alternative interventions. New or improved compounds & surface materials will be tested or developed for effectiveness against attachment & growth of bacterial pathogens & biofilm formation & resistance to corrosion. Factors that make surfaces susceptible or resistant to bacterial attachment & biofilm formation will be identified.

Project Team

Arnold, Judy

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002