Researchers analyze how microorganisms suppress pathogen regrowth

High temperatures achieved during composting are able to kill pathogens that pose risks to human, animal and plant health. Thus composting is deemed as a disinfection, sanitization or hygienization process. However, it is not a "sterilization" process. Although greatly reduced in number, s...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:BioCycle 2002-10, Vol.43 (10), p.57-60
Main Authors: PIETRONAVE, Stefano, FRACCHIA, Letizia, MARTINOTTI, Maria Giovanna
Format: Magazinearticle
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Biological and medical sciences
Biological treatment of sewage sludges and wastes
Biotechnology
Composting
E coli
Environment and pollution
Exact sciences and technology
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
General treatment and storage processes
Industrial applications and implications. Economical aspects
Microorganisms
Moisture content
Pathogens
Pollution
Research methodology
Salmonella
Statistical analysis
Temperature
Wastes
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Summary:High temperatures achieved during composting are able to kill pathogens that pose risks to human, animal and plant health. Thus composting is deemed as a disinfection, sanitization or hygienization process. However, it is not a "sterilization" process. Although greatly reduced in number, some pathogens may survive the process and regrow under proper conditions in the finished compost. A study at the University of Eastern Piedmont in Novara, Italy, was conducted to assess the role of the microflora, indigenous to finished compost, in suppressing the regrowth of pathogens under different moisture and temperature conditions. This study specifically examined the regrowth of Salmonella arizonae (S. arizona) and enteropathogenic E. coli. Study results suggest that high moisture content and increased temperature can positively affect the regrowth of S. arizonae and E. coli.
ISSN:0276-5055