Thanks to this structure, biofilms way more resistant to biocidal substances compared to the same bacteria in a liquid medium. This complex construction ensures survival even in extreme conditions.[\/vc_column_text]
The 3 Stages of Biofilm<\/h3>\n
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In this stage, individual microorganisms first come into contact with a surface and start to adhere to it. This initial attachment is reversible and weak. The microorganisms may use flagella, pili, or other appendages to facilitate attachment. As more microorganisms accumulate and attach to the surface, they begin to produce extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which form a protective matrix around the biofilm.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/3″][vc_column_text]2. Accumulation\/Maturation<\/strong><\/p>\n As the biofilm continues to develop, microorganisms within the biofilm community start to grow and multiply. The EPS matrix becomes more extensive and complex, providing structural stability to the biofilm. The microorganisms within the biofilm community start to communicate through a process called quorum sensing, where they release signaling molecules to coordinate their behavior. This communication helps regulate gene expression, leading to the formation of specialized microenvironments within the biofilm. The biofilm becomes highly resistant to antimicrobial agents and the host immune response during this stage.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/3″][vc_column_text]3. Dispersion<\/strong><\/p>\n The dispersal stage, where microorganisms within the biofilm detach from the biofilm, can roughly be classified in active and passive dispersal. Passive dispersal occurs when parts of the biofilm naturally slough off due to physical forces or environmental conditions. In the active dispersal stage, some microorganisms within the biofilm undergo physiological changes and initiate the process of detachment from the biofilm. It involves the production of enzymes and surfactants that help release individual microorganisms or clusters of cells from the biofilm.\u00a0Once dispersed, microorganisms can go on to colonize new surfaces and initiate the formation of new biofilms.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default”][vc_column] The economic losses caused by biofilm are huge. 47% of the food recalls are linked to biofilm, 1.3 billion tons of food go to the waste because of contamination and the average direct financial impact (re-ship and lost sales) amount to 30 million Euros. In the US every week 30 recalls arise, whereby 27% are because of undeclared allergens, 27% because of salmonella, 10% caused by Listeria, 10% caused by undeclared substances and 26% because of other reasons. [1, 2, 3]<\/sup><\/p>\n So, biofilm represents an important issue for food industries, as it has a direct impact on food safety and suitability.<\/p>\n Biofilm also have an impact on plant installations: it can cause resistance to the flow of fluids in the pipes and CIP, by increasing the roughness of surfaces. The slime formation reduces thermal performance in heat exchangers. Gas and odor development can also appear.<\/p>\n Biofilm also corrodes metal surfaces, which can lead to released microparticles and alloying elements.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column] Biofilms grow easily in plant water systems, as they contain many ramifications and are difficult to clean, making it easier for the biofilm to attach itself to the wet surfaces of the water distribution system. In such circumstances, bacteria affect water quality and can also cause corrosion. To prevent their development, drinking water is treated and its quality should be monitored.<\/p>\n Kersia offers solutions for removing existing biofilms by applying specific enzymatic products which hydrolyze the matrix protecting the biofilm, breaking down organic materials and dissolving mineral soil and polysaccharides.[\/vc_column_text] Biofilms can be found in various places on farms, as they can develop on a wide range of surfaces where water, nutrients, and microorganisms are present. Some common places where biofilms can be found on farms include:<\/p>\n Preventing biofilm formation is crucial to maintain animal health and productivity of the farm environment, and to avoid the introduction of (foodborne) pathogens in the food chain.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default”][vc_column] Destroying biofilms typically requires a multifaceted approach, as the EPS can provide a protective barrier against chemical agents. There are several strategies and chemicals that can be employed to disrupt biofilms and degrade EPS.[\/vc_column_text]Biofilm in food industry<\/h3>\n
Biofilm in water system<\/h3>\n
Biofilm on Farms<\/h3>\n
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Properly remove Biofilm and control Biofilm Formation<\/h1>\n
Removing existing biofilm<\/h3>\n
\nCertain enzymes have shown to degrade the EPS components of biofilms. These enzymes break down the extracellular DNA and polysaccharides, destabilizing the biofilm structure.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]2. Second stage: Application of a disinfectant with oxidizing agent<\/strong>
\n(such as peracetic acid) to eliminate all the contaminants.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default”][vc_column]
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