All veggie, fresh and healthy? [19.08.20]
Microorganisms are ubiquitous and rule our world. They can cause diseases, but mostly are beneficial for us and the environment. A variety of bacterial communities can also be found on fresh fruits and vegetables; in exceptional cases even pathogenic germs (HPK) such as E. coli and Salmonella enterica. Hohenheim researchers take part in the BMEL-funded project "PLANTINFECT". Here, a consortium from different institutions investigates how HPK invade plant tissues and which factors (e.g. soil type, fertilisation) play a role in the uptake, distribution and survival of HPK in crops and in the soil.
Picture Source: Pixabay
Bacterial communities differ significantly in fruit and vegetable species, although some species have more similar microbiomes than others. Species grown in the soil, e.g. spinach, tomatoes and strawberries, are dominated by Enterobacteriales, while fruit trees are populated by a wider variety of bacterial families, such as Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroides. In rare cases, human pathogens (HPK) such as E. coli and Salmonella enterica, can colonize plants.
The overarching aim of the project PLANTINFECT is to elucidate the factors influencing the uptake, distribution and survival of human pathogens in plants. Three goals are pursued:
- Establishment of methods for the specific detection of Salmonella and EHEC in plant tissues and soil
- Investigation of factors that influence the extent of colonization of crops with human pathogens.
- Risk assessment for the consumer by way of example: lettuce, corn salad and plant-based food are investigated to identify possible transmission pathways.
More information and contact:
Prof. Dr. Herbert Schmidt
Chair of Food Microbiology and Hygiene
