Use of antimicrobial agents in food processing systems.

This article reviews the patents showing the use of antimicrobial agents in processing plants to eliminate the growth of the microorganism that affects on the quality and safety of the end products. Several materials have unique antimicrobial effects, especially towards biofilms in the processing equipments. The selection of a proper antimicrobial agent is essential to obtain the best results in preserving foods.

Aspects of the microbiological quality and safety of ready-to-eat foods in Sharjah supermarkets in the United Arab Emirates.

Over the last few years, ready-to-eat (RTE) foods have become popular in grocery stores all over the world. This study was conducted to evaluate the microbiological safety and shelf life of some RTE salads sold in supermarkets in Sharjah Emirate, United Arab Emirates. Samples of four RTE salads, tabbouleh, hummus, Greek salad, and coleslaw, were obtained from supermarkets and examined for aerobic bacteria, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes.