Antibacterial Properties Of Foods

Question 1

Why does antibiotic resistance occur?

Answer 1

Over use of antibiotics, inappropriate prescriptions, some is regulated some is not, no developments in new drugs to treat them.

Question 2

Define antibiotic resistance.

Answer 2

When bacteria becomes resistant to the actions of antibiotics as there is a change in their response to them.

Question 3

What are the 4 mechanisms of antibiotic resistance?

Answer 3

Intrinsic - change in structure of components
Acquired - resist actions of antimicrobial agent
Genetic change - DNA changes so receptors not complementary
DNA transfer - transfer resistance to other bacteria

Question 4

What happens when humans become more resistant to antibiotics?

Answer 4

Higher mortality rates, greater rates of illness and infection, increased costs to medicine and longer hospital stays.
Affects workforce and profitability.

Question 5

What needs to be done to prevent antibiotic resistance occurring?

Answer 5

• only use when prescribed
• never use leftover antibiotics
• always take full course
• dont share
• vaccinations up to date
• good hygiene

Question 6

Define phytochemicals.

Answer 6

Large group of chemical compounds that protect the plant from viruses, bacteria, fungi etc.
classed based on chemical structure.

Question 7

How do some foods have antibacterial properties?

Answer 7

Can be formed during processing but most are naturally present. Need to be available in sufficient amounts to confer their action.