Efficacy of Peracetic Acid and Chlorine on the Reduction of Shiga Toxin-producing Escherichia coli and a Nonpathogenic E. coli Strain in Preharvest Agricultural Water

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jfp.2023.100172
• Publication Date: 2023-09-30T20:33:53Z
• Authors: Claire M. Murphy; Alexis M. Hamilton; Kim Waterman; Channah Rock; Donald W. Schaffner; Laura K. Strawn
• Keywords: Preharvest; Peracetic acid; Hand sanitizer; Strain (injury)

Produce-borne outbreaks of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) linked to preharvest water emphasize the need for efficacious treatment options. This study quantified reductions STEC and generic E. in agricultural using commercially available sanitizers. Water was collected from two sources Virginia (pond, river) inoculated with either a seven-strain panel or environmental strain TVS 353 (∼9 log10 CFU/100 mL). Triplicate samples were equilibrated 12 32°C treated peracetic acid (PAA) chlorine (Cl) [low (PAA:6ppm, Cl:2-4 ppm) high (PAA:10 ppm, Cl:10-12 residual concentrations] an allotted contact time (1, 5, 10 min). Strains enumerated, log-linear model used characterize how combinations influenced reductions. All Cl achieved ≥3 mL reduction, regardless (3.43 ± 0.25 7.05 0.00 Approximately 80% (19/24) 67% (16/24) PAA 353, respectively. The showed (10 > 5 1 min) sanitizer type (Cl PAA) had greatest impact on (p < 0.001). more resistant 0.001) indicating applicability as good surrogate. Results demonstrated can be effective strategies when chemistry is managed. These data will assist development in-field validation studies may identify suitable candidates registration antimicrobial pesticide products use against foodborne pathogens treatment.