The microbiome of water and water-associated biofilms in meat processing facilities

Abstract

Drinking water represents a reservoir for microorganisms. Microorganisms from water are able to attach to the inner surface of a water hose and nourish themselves by the leaking carbon molecules. Through the interaction of different species a multi-species biofilm can develop. Especially in the food processing environment biofilms in water hoses represent a risk factor. Within the food processing sector water hoses are often used to remove disinfecting agents from freshly cleaned surfaces, after the cleaning and disinfection procedure. When biofilms are located inside these water hoses, cells or cell clusters can detach, subsequently contaminating cleaned food contact surfaces.