News archive item
Will botulinum grow in baked goods?
From October 2009 newsletter
Although regarded as an anaerobic bacterium (grows in the absence of oxygen), there is some evidence that Clostridium botulinum can grow under conditions where oxygen is present. Baked products appear on the market in aerobic and anaerobic (Modified Atmosphere Packaged) formats. In a Club-funded project, the ability of proteolytic C. botulinum to grow and produce toxin in UK-produced baked goods (e.g. white and wholemeal bread, naan bread and muffins) under aerobic and anaerobic conditions will be investigated.
Manufacturers and retailers of bakery products (and other interested companies) are invited to participate in the Club.
Contact: Phil Voysey
+44(0)1386 842069
p.voysey@campden.co.uk