Flowers can pose public health risks in the food industry. Among other things, microbial contamination. Flowers can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses and parasites that can cause disease.
What are the risks of microbiological infections if the flowers are not correctly handled and stored?
Flowers can be contaminated with different types of microorganisms if not properly handled and stored. The following microorganisms can infect flowers:
- Bacteria: Certain bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella, can survive on flower surfaces and cause infections when inhaled or come into contact with the skin.
- Molds: Molds can grow on flowers due to high humidity conditions or hot temperatures and can cause respiratory infections in susceptible individuals.
- Yeasts: Yeasts can also grow on flowers due to high humidity conditions and can cause respiratory infections in susceptible individuals.
Which industrial pasteurization treatment to treat contaminated seeds while preserving its intrinsic qualities?
Industrial processing to pasteurize flowers to reduce the risk of microbiological infections usually involves subjecting them to high temperatures for a specified period of time. However, it can damage the intrinsic qualities of the flowers, such as color and shelf life, so it is important to strike a balance between the effectiveness of the treatment and the preservation of the qualities of the flowers.
The choice of industrial treatment depends on the type of flowers, the type of micro-organisms present and the priority given to preserving the qualities of the flowers. Consultation with a subject matter expert is recommended to assess the most appropriate treatment options for each situation.
