Effects of sterilization methods on the survival of pathogenic bacteria in potting soil stored at various temperatures

Abstract

Fresh food products can be contaminated with pathogenic bacteria in various agricultural environments. Potting soil is sterilized by heat sterilization and then reused. This study evaluated the effects of three sterilization methods (non-sterilized, pasteurized, and sterilized) on the survival of pathogenic bacteria in potting soil during storage for 60 days at 5, 15, 25, and 35 °C. The reduction in Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus in potting soil was higher at higher temperatures (25 and 35 °C) than at lower temperatures (5 and 15 °C). The population of pathogenic bacteria in pasteurized and sterilized potting soil was reduced below the detectable levels within 30 days at 35 °C. In contrast, the population of Bacillus cereus did not change in potting soil during storage for 60 days at all temperatures. These results indicate that sterilization and storage temperature of potting soil are critical factors influencing the survival of pathogenic bacteria.

Sterilize Methods Comparison for Soils: Cost, Time, and Efficiency

“…In soil bioremediation studies, it is necessary to develop abiotic controls that indicate decontamination by mechanisms other than biological ones; chemical processes and physical mechanisms such as evaporation, leaching and adsorption, among others [19]. Autoclave sterilization is a common and effective method that allows the production of absolutely pure cultures [20]- [23]. However, like any methodology, it can have disadvantages.…”

Effectiveness of potting media steaming in constraining growth of soil borne pathogenic fungi

“…Potting media sterilization provides healthy plant material for orchards with good quality production, high yield and prolonged productivity than the substandard and infected plants (Fabricio-Packer et al, 2011;Hyun et al, 2023). Different methods have been used for the treatment of potting media infected with various microorganisms' viz.…”