Growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Modified Atmosphere.

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to determine the influence of temperature and modified atmosphere appropriate for use with fresh produce on growth of Escherichia coli O157H7. None of the gas mixtures tested (CO2/O2/N2 0/5/95, 0/10/90, 5/10/85, 5/20/75, 10/5/85, and 10/20/70) significantly affected growth of this bacterium at 5, 10, and 20°C. Similarly, modified atmosphere did not significantly affect the tolerance of E. coli O157H7 to 3% NaCl. E. coli grew at 10 and 20°C and survived at 5°C.