Antimicrobial Activity of Cobalt (II)-Citrate against Common Foodborne Pathogens and Its Potential for Incorporation into Food Packaging Material

Novel antimicrobial compounds can be added to foods directly or incorporated into packaging materials in order improve food safety and shelf life. One such potential compound is the bioinorganic complex Co(II)-citrate (NH4)4[Co(C6H5O7)2] (Co-cit). Its activity against Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was investigated solution, both alone combination with existing preservatives. The of poly(lactic acid) films (PLA) Co-cit (23.3% w/w) L. monocytogenes determined using culture medium model (slices turkey ham smoked salmon). In nutrient broth, without preservatives, all four bacteria were significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited by 0.5 mM Co-cit, P. most sensitive. addition preservatives broth increased many cases, but not a way that consistent between different likely due additional physiological stress exerted on cells rather than any effect itself. PLA bacteriostatic artificial media foods. However, latter case, film itself main contributor inhibition. Composite PLA-(Co-cit) exhibited foodborne have application as active enhance safety.