Fish Microbiology and Quality Assurance

Unit 2 - Growth and survival of microorganisms in food

2.1.1. Nutrient content

Microorganisms associated with foods derive nutrients as source of energy, nitrogen, water, vitamins, minerals etc. for their growth and energy needs from foods. Nature of nutrient availability favor growth of different microorganisms. Ability of microorganisms to utilize nutrients favors their growth on foods, while inability to utilize nutrients reduces microbial growth.
Ex. Saccharolytic microorganisms grow well on cereals using carbohydrates as carbon source.

• Proteolytic bacteria grow well on fish and meat.
• Diverse microbial group are associated with fruits containing variety of sugars (sucrose, fructose etc) favoring a variety of microorganisms and yeasts.
• Generally, foods where nutrients are easily available (fish/meat) support high microbial load and activity. Foods with low water content are protected against microbial invasion.