Characterization of Paenibacillus spp. Isolated from Spoiled Corn Paste

Abstract

Spore-forming bacteria Paenibacillus spp. were isolated from spoiled corn paste stored below 10℃. Spoilage associated with pH decrease was reproduced by inoculating isolated strains to normal corn paste. To obtain insights to prevent recurrence of Paenibacillus-mediated spoilage, we further characterized the growth temperature, drug sensitivity, and heat resistance of the isolated strains. The isolated Paenibacillus strains could grow at as low as 2.5℃, suggesting that contamination by these strains can cause spoilage during cold chain transport and storage. We also report that these strains can be controlled by heat treatment such as 140℃ for 8 sec, and by treatment with cleaning reagent containing sodium dichloroisocyanurate.