Isolation and characterization of Salmonella enterica- and Escherichia coli-specific bacteriophages of the genus Epseptimavirus from wastewater in Minnesota.

Five lytic bacteriophages specific for Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli were isolated from wastewater in Minnesota. These phages, designated vB_Sal_EH1, vB_Sal_EH2, vB_Sal_EH3, vB_Sal_EH4, and vB_Sal_EH7, were characterized, and their genomes were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis showed that they grouped within the genus Epseptimavirus, with genome sizes ranging from 108,554 to 115,218 bp.

Bacteria intrinsic to Medicago sativa (alfalfa) reduce Salmonella enterica growth in planta.

Aims: The purpose of this study was to determine whether plant-associated bacteria (PAB) can reduce Salmonella enterica colonization and infection of alfalfa sprouts to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Methods: We isolated PAB from alfalfa seeds and sprouts. Monoclonal isolates of the bacteria were obtained and tested for their ability to inhibit Salmonella Typhimurium growth in alfalfa sprouts over 6 days.