Seward Stomacher® 400 used in evaluation of natural antimicrobials against food borne pathogens

Seward, the manufacturer and developer of the world leading, patented Stomacher^® Paddle Blender range, today highlighted a novel application of its Stomacher^® 400 Circulator laboratory blender in the study of the antimicrobial effects of herbs and spices as a natural means of protecting consumers from food borne pathogens. Stomacher 400 Circulator is referenced in many antimicrobial efficacy protocols because it is the best guarantee of thorough sample homogenisation.

An international team from Spain and Algeria has recently focussed its attention on the antimicrobial activity of two commonly occurring culinary herbs native to the Mediterranean region. Essential oils extracted from Pistacia lentiscus, the mastic plant and Satureja Montana, the winter savoury, have been evaluated for their efficacy individually and also in combination, for their synergistic potential, against Listeria monocytogenes CECT 935 in minced beef¹.

Listeria monocytogenes is widely distributed in nature and can be frequently found in a large number of food products, as well as in processing plants. Listeriosis is recognised as an important public health problem, affecting primarily pregnant women, newborns and adults with weakened immune systems.

The Stomacher 400 Circulator was used in two crucial phases of the evaluation process. Firstly, to ensure an even distribution of the test strain of the bacteria through the spiked meat samples; and then to mix in the essential oils. The techniques applied by the team highlight a less familiar function of this widely used laboratory blender in food science, chemical analysis and chemical residue extraction.

The findings of the evaluation showed that the combination of the two essential oils was the most effective. Importantly for the consumer, the required dose was tested against a panel and no after taste was detected. The use of essential oils is appealing to the consumer as they are natural solutions to a real health issue.

For further information on Seward’s Stomacher^® range and other sample preparation products, please visit: www.seward.co.uk.