MVPi 001 - Food microbiology Flashcards
Give few example of gram-negative rod
E. Coli, pneumonia, salmonella
Give few examples of endospore former
Bacillus & claustridium species are known to form endospore
Give few examples of food viruses
Food viruses examples include norovirus, hepatitis A and e and rotavirus
Give few examples of myotoxin producer
Penicillium & fusarium
Give some example of differential staining
Gram staining, acid fast staining, endospore staining.
example of proteolytic microorganism.
Archaea certain type of algae,
Give some examples of rapid method of microbial enumeration
Direct cell count, in direct cell count, viable cell count and total cell count
Give some examples of selective culture media
Mcconkey agar, eosin methylene blue (EMB)
Give an example of cocai in bunches
Staphylococcus aureus is an example of cocci that grow in clusters resembling bunches
Define coliform
Coliforms are a group of bacteria that are commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. Their presence in water or food can indicate that the water or food has been contaminated with fecal matter.
Define food safety
Food safety is the practice of preventing foodborne illness. This involves handling, preparing, and storing food in a way that prevents contamination with harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
Define probiotic
Probiotics are live bacteria that are believed to have health benefits. They are found in yogurt, kefir, and other fermented foods. Probiotics are thought to help improve gut health by crowding out harmful bacteria.
Define food contamination
Food contamination is the presence of harmful substances in food. These substances can be bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemicals. Food contamination can occur at any point during the food production process, from farm to fork.
Define fermentation
Fermentation is a process in which microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, break down carbohydrates into alcohol or lactic acid. Fermentation is used to produce a variety of foods and beverages, including yogurt, cheese, beer, and wine.
What’s the difference between mold and yeast?
- Cell structure: Mold is multicellular, while yeast is unicellular.
- Appearance: Mold forms visible filaments or fuzz, while yeast appears as single cells or small colonies.
- Reproduction: Mold reproduces with spores, while yeast reproduces by budding.
What’s the difference between foot infection versus food? Intoxication?
Infection is caused by live pathogens in food that multiply in your body. Intoxication is caused by toxins produced by bacteria in food, not necessarily the bacteria itself.
Difference between catalase test vs oxidase test
Catalase test: Detects the presence of the enzyme catalase, which breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. A positive test indicates the presence of catalase-producing bacteria. Oxidase test: Detects the presence of the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase, which is involved in the electron transport chain. A positive test indicates the presence of oxidase-producing bacteria
Difference betweenAspergillus vs Penicillium
Aspergillus: Grows rapidly, producing airborne spores. Can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions. Some species produce toxins that can be harmful or even fatal. . Penicillium: Grows slower than Aspergillus and produces fewer spores. Some species are used to produce penicillin, an antibiotic.
Difference between haleophile versus osmophile
Halophiles: Thrive in environments with high salt concentrations, such as saltwater or soy sauce. Osmophiles: Can tolerate or even require high sugar or salt concentrations for growth.
Spoilage and common physical and chemical changes associated with it
Spoilage is the process by which food becomes unfit for consumption. due to factors like microbial growth (bacteria, mold), enzymatic breakdown, oxidation, or physical damage.
Physical: Slime production, discoloration, leakage of fluids, textural changes (softening or hardening).
Chemical: Off-odors (due to volatile compounds produced by microbes), rancidity (fats breaking down), discoloration (oxidation or enzymatic browning).
Explain the principle of Elisa
ELISA detects the presence of specific molecules (antigens or antibodies) through an antigen-antibody reaction. It relies on colorimetric change to indicate the presence of the target molecule.
Explain PCR and it’s principle
PCR amplifies a specific DNA sequence billions of times, allowing detection of even minute amounts of DNA. It doesn’t rely on antibodies and is often used for identifying pathogens.
what is biosensor
A biosensor is a device that combines biological elements with a physical or chemical detector to detect the presence of a specific substance. It essentially translates a biological response into a measurable electrical signal. Biosensors have various applications in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety.
Additional information
Biosensors are proving to be valuable tools in ensuring food safety. They offer a rapid, sensitive, and specific method for detecting a wide range of contaminants and hazards in food products. Here are some of their applications:
* Detection of foodborne pathogens: Biosensors can identify harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella quickly and accurately. This helps prevent outbreaks of foodborne illness.
* Monitoring toxins and allergens: Biosensors can detect mycotoxins produced by molds and fungi, as well as allergens such as peanuts and gluten. This helps ensure the safety of food for people with allergies.
* Analysis of food quality: Biosensors can be used to measure the freshness of food, detect spoilage, and determine the presence of pesticides or antibiotics.
What is MPN test?
MPN (Most Probable Number) is a technique to estimate bacteria in a liquid sample, especially when there are too few to count directly. It involves diluting the sample, placing it in growth medium, and observing growth patterns to estimate the original bacterial concentration.