Sporulation and Biofilms as Survival Mechanisms of <i>Bacillus</i> Species in Low-Moisture Food Production Environments
Sakshi Lamba, Dechamma Mundanda Muthappa, Séamus Fanning, Amalia G. M. Scannell
Abstract
Low-moisture foods (LMF) have clear advantages with respect to limiting the growth of foodborne pathogens. However, the incidences of Bacillus species in LMF reported in recent years raise concerns about food quality and safety, particularly when these foods are used as ingredients in more complex higher moisture products. This literature review describes the interlinked pathways of sporulation and biofilm formation by Bacillus species and their underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to the bacteriums' persistence in LMF production environments. The long-standing challenges of food safety and quality in the LMF industry are also discussed with a focus on the bakery industry.