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Ch. 28 - Applied and Industrial Microbiology
Tortora - Microbiology: An Introduction 14th Edition
Tortora14th EditionMicrobiology: An IntroductionISBN: 9780138200398Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 28, Problem 4

Use the following choices to answer the following question:
a. Bacillus coagulans
b. Byssochlamys
c. Flat sour spoilage
d. Lactobacillus
e. Thermophilic anaerobic spoilage


The spoilage of canned foods caused by G. stearothermophilus.

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1
Step 1: Identify the organism G. stearothermophilus and understand its characteristics, such as being a thermophilic (heat-loving) bacterium that can survive high temperatures.
Step 2: Recall the types of spoilage associated with thermophilic bacteria in canned foods, focusing on spoilage that occurs under anaerobic (oxygen-free) conditions.
Step 3: Review the provided answer choices and match the characteristics of G. stearothermophilus with the correct type of spoilage or organism from the list.
Step 4: Recognize that G. stearothermophilus is known for causing a specific spoilage type in canned foods, often referred to as thermophilic anaerobic spoilage.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer corresponds to the spoilage type caused by G. stearothermophilus, which is thermophilic anaerobic spoilage.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Geobacillus stearothermophilus Characteristics

Geobacillus stearothermophilus is a thermophilic, spore-forming bacterium that thrives at high temperatures. It is commonly found in soil and can survive harsh conditions, including heat treatments used in food processing. Its spores are highly heat-resistant, making it a significant concern in canned food spoilage.
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Thermophilic Anaerobic Spoilage

Thermophilic anaerobic spoilage occurs when heat-loving bacteria grow in oxygen-free environments, such as sealed canned foods. These bacteria metabolize nutrients, producing gases and off-odors that spoil the food. This type of spoilage is often linked to bacteria like G. stearothermophilus, which can survive sterilization.
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Canned Food Spoilage Mechanisms

Spoilage in canned foods results from microbial growth that survives processing, leading to changes in texture, odor, and appearance. Understanding the types of spoilage, such as flat sour or thermophilic anaerobic, helps identify the responsible organisms and appropriate control measures to ensure food safety.
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